This cross-disciplinary study examines how college students navigate interpersonal conflict, integrating the lenses of health and education to illuminate the emotional and social complexities of campus life. Using qualitative methods including self-reflection reports and semi-structured interviews, the research unfolds how negative emotional expression and lack of empathy undermine relationship quality, while empathetic communication and emotional interdependency foster constructive conflict resolution and student well-being. The findings reveal significant correlations between emotional interdependency and conflict management styles, indicating that violations driven by negative emotions and lack of empathy adversely impact student relationships. These insights underline the vital role of educators and administrators in addressing conflict through an integrated health-education framework. The research proposes that college environments serve as key platforms for acquiring interpersonal conflict resolution skills, promoting emotional well-being, and fostering constructive relationships. By embedding conflict awareness into holistic education, institutions can design more targeted mental wellness initiatives and support mechanisms. The study contributes both theoretically—by merging health and education perspectives—and practically—by offering actionable recommendations for educators and administrators to improve student well-being. Aligned with SEACE’s conference themes of Global Citizenship and Education for Peace, this paper advocates for nurturing emotionally intelligent and culturally responsive learning communities.

Authors:
Johnny Chan, University Canada West, Canada

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Johnny Chan is currently as Assistant Professor in the Department of Marketing, Strategy & Entrepreneurship at University Canada West, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnychan0506

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