Navigation
Attachment styles among young adults: a test of a four-category model
This study proposes a new four-group model of attachment styles in adulthood, characterized by combinations of individuals’ self-image (positive or negative) and their perception of others (positive or negative). In Study 1, a structured interview was designed to provide both continuous and categorical assessments of the four identified attachment styles. The intercorrelations among the attachment ratings supported the validity of the proposed model. These ratings were further corroborated through self-report measures assessing self-concept and interpersonal functioning, revealing that each attachment style was linked to a unique profile of interpersonal challenges as reported by both self and friends. In Study 2, the attachment styles associated with family of origin and peer relationships were evaluated separately. The findings from Study 1 were replicated, demonstrating that the proposed model is applicable to familial relationships. Additionally, participants’ attachment styles with peers were found to correlate significantly with their family attachment ratings, indicating a consistent pattern across different relational contexts. [NPID: self-image, perception, attachment, interpersonal, psychology]
Year: 1991
