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How affect regulation moderates the association between anxious attachment and neuroticism
Thomas N Crawford1, Phillip R Shaver, H Hill Goldsmith
1Columbia University and New York State Psychiatric Institute, USA. crawfor@pi.cpmc.columbia.edu
Attachment & Human Development
|May 18, 2007
Summary
Anxious attachment and neuroticism are complexly linked, not linearly. Avoidant attachment and conscientiousness moderate this relationship, influencing affect regulation strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Personality Psychology
- Attachment Theory
Background:
- Attachment theory posits distinct styles influencing relationships.
- High correlations between anxious attachment and neuroticism raise questions about construct validity.
- Attachment styles may reflect affect regulation strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamic relationship between neuroticism and anxious attachment.
- To examine the moderating roles of avoidant attachment and conscientiousness.
- To explore the interplay between personality traits and attachment styles in affect regulation.
Main Methods:
- Survey data collected from 287 college students (late adolescents and young adults).
- Utilized questionnaire measures for neuroticism, anxious attachment, and avoidant attachment.
- Employed statistical analyses to assess moderating effects.
Main Results:
- Neuroticism and anxious attachment exhibit a complex, non-linear association.
- Avoidant attachment moderates the link between neuroticism and anxious attachment.
- Conscientiousness also moderates the association, suggesting different affect regulation systems.
Conclusions:
- Anxious attachment is not solely explained by neuroticism; other factors are involved.
- Attachment styles and personality traits interact dynamically in shaping affect regulation.
- Findings contribute to understanding the relationship between personality and attachment.
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