Decoupling task and relationship conflict: the role of intragroup emotional processing

The present paper focuses on the role of emotion in intragroup conflict processes. We propose that how group members handle emotion affects intragroup interactions and has implications for task and relationship conflict. Three types of variables-collective emotional intelligence, intragroup relational ties, and conflict-relevant interactional norms-constrain negative emotionality and may determine whether task conflict results in damaging relationship conflict. The moderating influence of these variables is discussed, as are compositional issues associated with measuring them. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.