Is there a relationship between personality type and preferred conflict‐handling styles? An exploratory study of registered nurses in southern Mississippi

Aim(s)  The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between different personality factors of female registered nurses and their method of dealing with conflict. Background  Conflict is both necessary and absolute and factors that influence development and resolution of conflict include personality traits. Methods  Ninety‐seven female registered nurses working in three health care facilities in south Mississippi participated in this quantitative study. Instruments  The instruments used were the Myers Briggs Type Indicator and the Thomas Kilmann Mode Instrument, which are forced choice questionnaires resulting in numerical data. Results  There was not a statistically significant correlation between female registered nurses’ personality factors and methods of dealing with conflict. Conclusions  The literature reveals that interpersonal conflict among nurses is a significant issue for the nursing profession. However, according to this study, there is no relationship between registered nurses’ personality factors and methods used to deal with conflict. Implications for nursing management  The United States is faced with a serious nursing shortage, in part due to job dissatisfaction related to conflict in the workplace. Understanding conflict management styles can increase registered nurses’ positive conflict outcomes and lead to improved relationships, increased job satisfaction, and increased retention of registered nurses.