Pride, Is It Worth The Pain?

Arguing. Arguing. Arguing!

Why is it that people often feel the need to argue? Is it somehow a twisted comfort that reminds the arguer that their opinion matters? Or is it an attempt to regain lost control of the situation at hand? And what is it that causes the hurt to bubble up into anger? Why is that anger so difficult to contain? Once the cork pops on the bottle containing the anger, why is it near to impossible to recork and maintain? Is it pride, selfishness, pain?
Then, what feelings cause us to continue to work through the damaged feelings caused by the conflict? When do we determine which feelings are more important to side with; the hurt that caused the anger, or the regret and guilt that drive the desire to mend the pain?   
At what point do we stop and decide that we no longer desire to participate in the vicious pattern of self gratification vs. a clear conscience.
Does satisfying one's pride claim more gratification than uplifiting the feelings of others? 
When does this cycle end? When can two people be, not only content together, but happy, for not just  some, but most of their relationship?
.....