Conflict Anxiety Response Scale: A Scale Development Study for Assessing Tendencies in Interpersonal Conflicts

In this paper, we will present the findings of an ongoing scale development study that seeks to assess common behavioral tendencies in interpersonal conflict situations. The Conflict Anxiety Response Scale (CARS) is based upon a theoretical framework proposed by Morton Deutsch–a research scholar and clinical practitioner—which outlines a set of twelve tendencies identified as common manifestations of anxiety management in conflict. In the present line of research, we seek to create a valid and reliable scale that assesses respondents on these twelve dimensions, and to explore relevant related constructs to gain insight into the correlates of these distinct responses to conflict. Ultimately, we seek to create a practical assessment tool to enhance self-awareness and foster discussion among practitioners in educational contexts. The present proposal extends and updates the project previously presented at the 2017 IACM conference.