Mapping the intimate relationship mind : comparisons between three models of attachment representations

Type of content
Theses / Dissertations
Publisher's DOI/URI
Thesis discipline
Psychology
Degree name
Master of Science
Publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Language
English
Date
2002
Authors
Overall, Nickola
Abstract

This study tested and compared three models of the way multiple attachment working models are cognitively organized and structured. Model 1 suggests that attachment representation consists of relationship-specific working models and a single global working model that summarizes attachment across an individual's various specific relationships. Model 2 proposes that, instead of a global working model, three independent general attachment representations exist for the relationship domains of family, friendships and romantic partners. Model 3 describes attachment representation as a complex network of interconnected working models, constructed of both relationship-specific and relationship­ domain representations that are nested under an overarching global working model. Two hundred participants (100 males and 100 females) completed self-report ratings of general attachment within each of the three relationship domains, and self-report ratings of attachment for three specific relationships within each domain. As predicted, confirmatory factor analyses revealed, across both types of measurement and both attachment dimensions, that the best-fitting model was Model 3. These results were replicated across gender and current relationship status. Contrary to predictions, no differences in level of domain-differentiation were found according to levels of attachment anxious/ambivalence, avoidance, or attributional complexity. Implications for attachment theory and research, and the development, function and use of attachment working models are discussed.

Description
Citation
Keywords
Attachment behavior, Interpersonal relations
Ngā upoko tukutuku/Māori subject headings
ANZSRC fields of research
Rights
All Rights Reserved