Understanding Conflict Dynamics in Spanish Parliament: MPs’ Personality Traits and Attitudes Toward Conflict

Abstract

This study addresses the gap in research on individual-level factors contributing to parliamentary conflict by developing a measure of members of parliaments’ (MPs) conflict attitudes and examining the role of personality traits. Utilizing a comprehensive framework and validated measures, we aim to provide insights into the factors influencing MPs’ propensity for conflict and resistance to consensus. Our findings reveal that personality traits related to Agreeableness and Machiavellianism are significant predictors of conflict attitudes. These results deepen our understanding of the micro-foundations of parliamentary conflict and inform strategies for promoting cooperation and constructive political behavior in legislatures.