The early formation of attachment based on caregiving interactions is a significant predictor of
future attachment style development. My grandparents, who adopted me at age 5, were always
sure my basic needs were met physiologically, yet their emotional responsiveness was quite
unreliable. This specific dynamic aspect of our relationship led me to seek out connections
actively, cultivating intimacy and emotional support needs while at the same time struggling with
the fears/anxiety level. Kearns and Lee (2015) clarify how early attachment experiences
influence the development of internal working models, which tend to persist into adulthood,
thereby shaping individuals' representations of both the self and others (pp. 309-310). Models
formed from the early attachment continue to operate within my adult relationships, dictating my
capacity to forge trust and cope with vulnerability.
Although research into adult attachment primarily focuses on romantic relationships,
other sources can serve as attachment figures. Siblings become key providers of stability and
consistency throughout an individual's development, especially when parental support cannot be
guaranteed. In the same manner, pets become attachment figures by providing unmatched
comfort and companionship; their absence not just increases stress levels but also lessens the
feeling of safety. Furthermore, religious or spiritual figures may assume attachment roles by
offering reassurance and advice that are not contingent upon interpersonal relationships with
other individuals. Turkle (2012) explains how technology can serve as a substitute for attachment
when the need for human-centric contact is called into question, exemplified nicely by the TED
talk she gave.
Lastly, the development of attachments is shaped by cultural influences.
Individualistic cultures, such as American culture, largely prioritize personal freedom and self-
reliance, which in turn relates to a higher occurrence of avoidant attachment behaviors.
By contrast, collectivist societies encourage interdependence, thereby fostering a sense of
security through proximity to family and group members. Kearns and Lee (2015) propose that
the attachment concept needs to be considered not just on an individual level but within the
broader cultural system context, which aids effective relational functioning. On a broader scale,
the quality of early care, the availability of alternative caregivers, and the cultural value placed
on independence all play key roles in determining an individual's attachment style throughout
their lifespan. Each element operates interdependently on a bidirectional level, influencing
individuals’ intimacy, trust, and attachment behaviors on a day-to-day basis.
future attachment style development. My grandparents, who adopted me at age 5, were always
sure my basic needs were met physiologically, yet their emotional responsiveness was quite
unreliable. This specific dynamic aspect of our relationship led me to seek out connections
actively, cultivating intimacy and emotional support needs while at the same time struggling with
the fears/anxiety level. Kearns and Lee (2015) clarify how early attachment experiences
influence the development of internal working models, which tend to persist into adulthood,
thereby shaping individuals' representations of both the self and others (pp. 309-310). Models
formed from the early attachment continue to operate within my adult relationships, dictating my
capacity to forge trust and cope with vulnerability.
Although research into adult attachment primarily focuses on romantic relationships,
other sources can serve as attachment figures. Siblings become key providers of stability and
consistency throughout an individual's development, especially when parental support cannot be
guaranteed. In the same manner, pets become attachment figures by providing unmatched
comfort and companionship; their absence not just increases stress levels but also lessens the
feeling of safety. Furthermore, religious or spiritual figures may assume attachment roles by
offering reassurance and advice that are not contingent upon interpersonal relationships with
other individuals. Turkle (2012) explains how technology can serve as a substitute for attachment
when the need for human-centric contact is called into question, exemplified nicely by the TED
talk she gave.
Lastly, the development of attachments is shaped by cultural influences.
Individualistic cultures, such as American culture, largely prioritize personal freedom and self-
reliance, which in turn relates to a higher occurrence of avoidant attachment behaviors.
By contrast, collectivist societies encourage interdependence, thereby fostering a sense of
security through proximity to family and group members. Kearns and Lee (2015) propose that
the attachment concept needs to be considered not just on an individual level but within the
broader cultural system context, which aids effective relational functioning. On a broader scale,
the quality of early care, the availability of alternative caregivers, and the cultural value placed
on independence all play key roles in determining an individual's attachment style throughout
their lifespan. Each element operates interdependently on a bidirectional level, influencing
individuals’ intimacy, trust, and attachment behaviors on a day-to-day basis.
