Serial arguments in inter-ethnic relationships

Serial arguments have been studied primarily in the context of romantic relationships, without any differentiation of partners’ ethnic background. In this paper we advance knowledge about serial arguments by testing a structural equation model of serial arguments in inter-ethnic relationships (N = 598). We also analyze the effects cultural factors have on serial arguments through a second structural equation model in which self-construals, power distance, face concerns, and masculinity and femininity are exogenous variables, followed by goals, tactics, and outcomes as endogenous variables. Both models fit the data well and we discuss the patterns our data revealed about serial arguments.

► We test a structural equation model of serial arguments in inter-ethnic relationships (N = 598).
► We also analyze the effects cultural variables have of serial arguments in a second model.
► Negative goals lead to distributive tactics and positive goals lead to integrative tactics.
► Face concerns are the most influential cultural variable in serial arguments.