ATTACHMENT STYLES
LET’S GET SECURE: A LOOK AT
STYLE: HALEY POAG, MARIA VITALE, & KATHRYN REMY WORDS: CHLOE WEST & NAVYA KALIA PHOTO: CELIA LOCHKOS GLAM: MORGAN LYNCH Without knowing it, your current relationships may mimic your earliest relationships with your parents. This concept is known as attachment theory, which outlines the various dynamics between an infant and a caregiver and their influence on adult relationships. This theory explains the emotional bond between two people and is categorized through four attachment styles: secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant and fearfulavoidant. To a certain extent, one person embodies multiple attachment styles, and having an awareness of their primary attachment style is the first step towards having more secure, fulfilling relationships. Individual attachment styles are formed at a young age and can stem from different experiences. For example, anxious-preoccupied attachment style is caused by a lack of parental support, underappreciation and fear of abandonment. It can develop from inconsistency in caregiving or parents relying on their children for comfort. Adults who suffer from this attachment style may think highly of others but have low self-esteem and may fear loneliness, resentment and rejection. When in romantic relationships, those with anxious-preoccupied attachment are often jealous and possessive of their partners, while in platonic relationships, they might crave attention and are overly sensitive. Caregivers who are often stern and emotionally detached from their children typically frown upon individual expression, feelings and passion. Dismissive-avoidant attachment style develops from parents who were not present in a child’s life or were often overwhelmed with caregiving responsibilities. Their children might often be told to toughen up, and as a result, grow up faster than expected. This can lead them to believe they must be their own support system.
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