Researcher: Nicholas Leung Designer: Kelly Liu
In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of human relationships, a certain idea stands out as a guiding light for us: The Attachment Theory. Developed by the eminent psychologist John Bowlby, this theory unveils a fascinating truth about our nature as humans- the innate need for love and connections.
This article aims to bring you onto a journey in exploring the concepts offered by attachment theory and revealing the hidden characteristics you possess that have shaped the relationships between you and your friends, family, or even strangers!
Concept of Attachment
Imagine a world where our earliest interactions could shape the course of our entire lives, where the embraces and caresses of our loving mother and the soothing presence of a trusted buddy could leave an eternal mark on us. Fortunately for us, this captivating world is not a figment of imagination; it exists in the reality we live in, in the realm of attachment- the force that binds us together beyond time and space.
Bowlby believed that these connections between a child and their caregivers lay the foundation for their lifelong relationships. Viewing attachment as an evolutionary mechanism, he saw it as nature’s way of ensuring our ancestor’s survival by keeping them close to their parents.
“Attachment refers to a deep and enduring emotional bond that connects one person to another across time and space. “
The Four Attachment Styles
The theory divides people into four distinct attachment styles, each of which represents a unique behavioural and emotional response displayed in relationships. These attachment styles emerge in our early infant stage and have a significant impact on how we perceive and approach relationships throughout our lives.
Ambivalent attachment- Those with an ambivalent attachment style often had inconsistent caring as a child. They become preoccupied with their partner’s availability and attentiveness and often look for reassurance and validation.
They may display clingy behaviour and frequent fear for rejection and abandonment from those around them.
Secure attachment- People who have a secure attachment style tend to have experienced consistent and responsive caregiving in their early years. They enjoy relationships in their lives with a strong sense of trust and security, and they feel at ease being close to others while still exploring the world on their own.
Avoidant attachment- Individuals with this attachment style are more likely to have received distant and inattentive care from their carers. To protect themselves from potential mental suffering and rejection, they tend to downplay their feelings and retain independence.
They may have trouble expressing their emotions and developing intimacy with others.
Disorganised attachment- People with this attachment style are often the result of violent or traumatic caregiving experiences. In such cases, their parents become a source of comfort but also fear, resulting in the development of conflicting behaviours and would often alternate between desiring intimacy and withdrawing.
Those who have disorganised attachment styles may struggle to form stable relationships and regulate their own emotions due to the lack of coherence and organisation within themselves.
The Theory’s Relation to Mental Health
The theories' styles have enormous significance for our well-being, each of which is distinguished by different outcomes.
Secure attachment is frequently regarded as one that results in beneficial mental health outcomes such as increased self-esteem and emotional resilience. Despite their resilience, when presented with situations they find difficult to bear, they are more than willing to seek help from others, which can act as a stress and adversity buffer.
Insecure attachment styles, which refers to the other three kinds stated above, are associated with issues such as emotional regulation, interpersonal challenges, and a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and other psychological illnesses.
Using the theory
Have a look at the four attachment styles listed above to find which one best matches you! Understanding your style will increase your self-awareness of how it has affected your thoughts and behaviours. You may even discover certain insecure tendencies that are detrimental to your mental health.
But fear not if you find yourself having an insecure attachment style. Having self awareness and knowledge of it is a very good place to start improving your mental health and social life.
Sources:
Balouria, Rajesh. “Attachment – Culture and Psychology.” Maricopa Open Digital Press, https://open.maricopa.edu/culturepsychology/chapter/attachment/
“Attachment theory.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attachment_theory.
“A Brief Overview of Adult Attachment Theory and Research | R. Chris Fraley.” Psychology Department Labs, http://labs.psychology.illinois.edu/~rcfraley/attachment.htm.
Ackerman, Courtney E., and Christina R. Wilson. 2018. “What is Attachment Theory? Bowlby's 4 Stages Explained.” Positive Psychology. https://positivepsychology.com/attachment-theory/.
Sincero, Sarah Mae. “Bowlby Attachment Theory - Core emotional development in humans.” Explorable, https://explorable.com/bowlby-attachment-theory.
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