DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.187228.1 ISSN: 2046-1402

Conflict Dynamics and Marital Resilience in Minangkabau

Fachrina ., Damsar ., Alfan Miko, Jendrius .
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This study examines the dynamics of marital conflict and resilience among couples in Minangkabau society, where matrilineal kinship and adat norms shape family interactions. Not all couples choose divorce; many maintain their marriages by developing social practices that sustain relational stability. Using a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, quantitative surveys of 30 couples were first conducted to identify general patterns of marital conflict, followed by in-depth interviews to contextualize these findings. Results reveal that marital conflict manifests in interconnected forms, including role conflict, parenting disputes, economic tensions, and intimate relationship disagreements, which may escalate into verbal, physical, or psychological violence, infidelity, and neglect. Conflicts arise from multiple, interacting factors, including individual expectations, relational dynamics, and structural pressures such as economic stress and urbanization. Extended family involvement, particularly the role of mamak, was minimal, and professional mediation was absent, indicating a shift of conflict management to the nuclear family. Couples primarily employ passive, avoidance-oriented strategies, though some engage in discussion or deliberation, signaling gradual adoption of constructive conflict resolution. These findings highlight the interplay between traditional matrilineal values and modern patriarchal practices, offering insights for family counselors, adat institutions, and policymakers on culturally grounded approaches to enhance marital resilience in urban Minangkabau families.

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