Attachment disorder
Attachment disorder - problems with behaviour and relationships that result from a person not having formed good attachments (strong feelings of love or connection) with parents or other people who cared for them as a small child.
Types:
a)Anxious-Preoccupied Attachment
Anxious-preoccupied attachment arises from inconsistent caregiving, leading to a child who becomes overly dependent on their caregiver. They often seek excessive closeness but struggle with fear of abandonment. Characteristics include:
- High anxiety in relationships
- Clinginess or neediness
- Difficulty being alone
b)Dismissive Avoidant Attachment
Dismissive-avoidant attachment usually develops when caregivers are overly dismissive or emotionally unavailable. Individuals with this style tend to value independence to the detriment of emotional intimacy. Key traits include:
- A tendency to avoid emotional closeness
- Suppressing emotions
- Viewing relationships as unimportant
c)Secure Attachment
Unlike the other types, secure attachment fosters positive interactions and emotional stability. Individuals with a secure attachment style usually exhibit:
- Easily forming healthy relationships
- Comfort with intimacy
- Good emotional regulation
d)Fearful Avoidant Attachment
Fearful-avoidant attachment is characterized by a conflict between desires for closeness and fears of getting hurt. These individuals typically had a chaotic childhood where caregivers were both a source of comfort and fear. They often exhibit:
- Fear of getting close to others
- Difficulty trusting people
- Emotional highs and lows in relationships
Cambridge Dictionary. (n.d.). Attachment disorder. Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2025. Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/E6EoT
Compassion Behavioral Health. (2024). The 4 types of attachment disorder. Compassion Behavioral Health. Retrieved from: https://shorturl.at/bOE8a