Perceptions of past and present attachment relationships
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Date
2008-12
Authors
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Publisher
The Ohio State University
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the extent to which individuals’
recollections of their attachment relationships during childhood were associated with their
present attachment relationships, and how attachment was associated with the willingness to
sacrifice for a relationship and psychological well-being. 177 participants completed
questionnaires concerning their perceptions of their attachment relationships, their willingness to
sacrifice in order to maintain their relationships, and their psychological well-being. Results
revealed that perceptions of past attachment relationships with mother, father, and best friend
were positively associated with present relationships, including the present relationship with
one’s romantic partner. Past and present attachment relationships were positively associated with
the willingness to sacrifice for the benefit of the relationship with the parent or the best friend,
but not with the romantic partner. Finally, higher quality past and present attachment
relationships were associated with higher psychological well-being. Results imply that childhood
attachment relationships are enduring, and instrumental for present relationship functioning and
psychological well-being.
Advisor: Dr. Amy Brunell
Description
Keywords
attachment style, security, willingness to sacrifice, psychological well being