Self-construals, conflict styles, and religious identification in India

Purpose – This paper aims to explore the relationships between self-construals, religious identification, and conflict styles in India. Design/methodology/approach – Data were gathered in India (n=1,108) among Hindus (n=744) and Muslims (n=364) in various organizations throughout India. Conflict styles were measured using Oetzel's conflict style measure. Self-construal was measured using Singelis' self-construal measure. Pearson correlations and multiple regressions were conducted. Findings – Correlation analysis showed significant negative correlation between the independent and interdependent self-construal. Multiple hierarchical regression modeling demonstrated significant interactions between religious identification, self-construal, and conflict style. Hindus are more likely to dominate in conflict situations, while Muslims are more likely to avoid conflict and prefer more group-oriented conflict styles. Research limitations/implications – Self-report measure is a possible limitation and the sample is religiously homogeneous. Practical implications – The results of this study could assist community organizers and others who work in conflict mediation resolve conflict among religious groups. Originality/value – Few studies have examined conflict styles in India and this study employs a macro and micro-level approach to the study of conflict.