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The development of commitment and attachment in dating relationships: attachment security as relationship construct.
1Department of Psychology, University of Delaware, 220 Wolf Hall, Newark, DE 19716. sduemmler@erols.com
Journal of Adolescence
|July 31, 2001
Summary
Attachment security and commitment predict long-term relationship stability in couples. Parental factors and open communication also foster growth in relationship security and commitment.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Attachment security and commitment are crucial for adult romantic relationships.
- Understanding predictors of relationship stability is vital for relationship science.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine attachment security and commitment as predictors of relationship stability.
- To investigate the influence of personality and family of origin on relationship development.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study of 51 couples assessing attachment and commitment before college graduation.
- Relationship stability assessed one year post-graduation.
- Attachment security measured as partner availability and responsiveness.
Main Results:
- Attachment security increased with relationship duration and predicted post-graduation stability.
- Maternal/paternal security and parental communication positively influenced attachment and commitment growth.
- Attachment styles predicted relationship stability for both males and females.
Conclusions:
- Attachment functions as both a personality and relationship construct in romantic partnerships.
- Early life experiences and relationship dynamics shape long-term relationship success.
- Attachment security is a key factor in maintaining relationship stability after major life transitions.