When partners in conflict trade escalating provocations back and forth, this is a (n):

a. attributional conflict.

b. pattern of negative responsibility attribution.

c. pattern of negative affect reciprocity.

d. accusatory conflict.

b. pattern of negative responsibility attribution.

Explanation:

Responsibility attribution can be defined to be the cause or reason behind an action or attitude. As human, we tend to give reason to each and every of our actions so as not be totally responsible for them. This responsibility attribution can be either positive or negative.

When partners in conflict trade escalating provocations back and forth, this is a pattern of negative responsibility attribution.