Prediction Emotional Attachment Based on Relationship Maintenance Strategies and Psychological Hardiness among Substance-Addicted Couples: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background Substance addiction is a devastating social problem that contributes to family disintegration and marital separation. Emotional attachment plays a vital role in maintaining relationships and strengthens couples' resilience in adversity. This study aimed to examine the association between emotional attachment, relationship maintenance strategies, and psychological hardiness among substance -addicted couples. Methods This cross-sectional correlational study was conducted in 2023 among families affected by substance addiction seeking treatment at addiction rehabilitation clinics in Zanjan, Iran. Data were collected using three standardized scales the Revised Adult Attachment Scale (RAAS (Collins and Read (1990), the Relational Maintenance Strategy Measure (RMSM) Stafford, Dainton, and Haas (2000), and the Abridge Hardiness Scale(AHS) developed by Kobasa, Maddi, and Kahn (1982). Pearson's correlation coefficient and regression analysis were used to examine the relationships between variables. Results A total of 190 couples participated in the study, with a mean age of 42.59 ± 11.05 years. The majority had below-high school education (30.52%). The findings indicated a significant relationship between emotional attachment, relationship maintenance strategies, and psychological hardiness among substance-addicted couples (P < 0.001 and P = 0.01). Conclusion Since emotional attachment contributes to relationship stability and psychological hardiness among substance -addicted couples, psychological counseling, and social intervention programs aimed at increasing awareness and fostering emotional connections among affected couples can play a crucial role in preventing family breakdown and reducing social harm.