Open Access

An Examination of the Relationship Between Conflict Management Styles and Communication Skills of Sports Management Students

1 Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Department of Sports Management
2 Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Faculty of Sport Sciences, Department of Sports Management

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between conflict management styles and communication skills among sports management students and to determine whether these variables differ according to demographic characteristics such as gender and age. The study was designed using a quantitative correlational and causal-comparative research model. The sample consisted of 304 volunteer students enrolled in Sports Management Departments in Istanbul. Data were collected using the Conflict Management Styles Scale, the Communication Skills Scale, and a Personal Information Form. The data were analyzed using independent samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, and Pearson correlation analysis. The findings revealed significant gender differences in the compromising (p=.013), avoiding (p<.001), and collaborating (p=.018) dimensions of conflict management styles, with female students reporting higher scores than males. No significant gender differences were found in competing and accommodating styles (p>.05). Furthermore, no significant differences were observed in conflict management styles or communication skills according to age (p>.05). The results also indicated positive and significant relationships between conflict management styles and communication skills. Correlation coefficients ranged from low to moderate levels (r=.123–.558, p<.05), suggesting that students with higher communication skills tend to demonstrate more effective conflict management behaviors. In conclusion, communication skills and conflict management styles are positively associated among sports management students. Developing these competencies through educational programs may contribute to the professional development of future sports managers and improve their effectiveness in organizational communication and conflict resolution processes. 

Keywords

How to Cite

Kaya, A., & Karaca, Özge. (2026). An Examination of the Relationship Between Conflict Management Styles and Communication Skills of Sports Management Students. Journal of Sports Industry & Blockchain Technology, 3, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.67015/sibt.282

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