What forms does aggression take?

Buunk, Schaap, and Prevoo (2001) presented a model that assumed five typical conflict styles in intimate relationships: aggression-pushing; avoidance; soothing; compromise and problem-solving. Aggression-pushing is when a partner is assertive and neglects the interest of the relationship. Avoidance can be characterized as a partner physically and emotionally retreating from the situation, and ignoring the interests of one another. Soothing is when a partner tries to prevent conflict and defends interest. Compromise is where both partners find a solution that works well for the both of them. Finally, problem-solving is the search for a mutually satisfactory solution (Buunk et al., 2001).