Numerous studies have shown the positive effects of adult attachment security on self-image, stress management, values, and overall mental, physical, and relationship health. The ability to trust and depend on a partner results in a “broaden-and-build” cycle, i.e., the sense of security increases a person’s emotional stability in times of stress, acting as a resource for resilience, the ability to recover following adversity (Fredrickson 2001).
Secure attachment in adults is positively associated with measures of wellbeing and negatively associated with depression and anxiety (Birnbaum et al. 1997; Mickelson, Kessler, and Shaver 1997). Securely attached adults have constructive and optimistic beliefs and attitudes. They appraise problems as manageable, view stressful events as opportunities for learning, and have a more positive view of human nature (Collins and Read 1990). They have more positive expectations regarding their partner’s behavior, and are less negative when reacting to a partner’s hurtful behavior (Baldwin et al. 1996). Secure adults score higher on measures of trust, intimacy, open communication, prosocial behavior, self-disclosure, support seeking, marital satisfaction, and self-esteem (Mikulincer and Shaver 2007). Attachment security has been found to be associated with curiosity, learning, change, taking calculated risks, facing challenges, and engaging in exploration of new and different information and situations (Elliot and Reis 2003).
Achieving secure attachment—having a partner who fulfills our intrinsic attachment needs and serves as a secure base—is vital to emotional and physical health. Securely attached adults are more calm and confident, have prosocial values, a sense of purpose and meaning, are able to maintain intimate and reciprocal relationships, and are better able to cope with life’s challenges and hardships.
Dr . Terry Levy and Mr. Michael Orlans co-wrote this article. They are the co-authors of two books and co-lead seminars on attachment and trauma. They welcome hearing from you.
