Transfer of Attachment from Parents to Romantic Partners: Effects of Individual and Relationship Variables

Attachment theory emphasises the importance of close relationships across the lifespan. Research has documented the gradual transfer of attachment from parents to romantic partners, and the effects of relationship length and secure attachment. The present study was designed to confirm the effects of romantic involvement (dating, cohabiting, married) on attachment transfer, and to explore the role of individual and relationship variables in the transfer process. Young adults (N = 107) completed questionnaires assessing age, relationship length, involvement, relationship closeness, conflict, attachment dimensions (anxiety and avoidance), and attachment figures. Greater romantic involvement was associated with stronger attachment to partners and weaker attachment to mothers and friends. Attachment to partner was related positively to age, relationship length and closeness, and negatively to avoidance; the combination of high avoidance and low anxiety predicted particularly weak attachment. Further, anxious individuals reported higher levels of desired than actual attachment. The results are discussed in terms of attachment principles, relational dynamics, and implications for individual and couple adjustment.