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Physical separation in adult attachment relationships
1Department of Psychology, University of Utah, 380 South 1530 East, Room 502, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-0251, USA.
Current Opinion in Psychology
|July 21, 2018
Summary
Attachment theory research shows that regular contact with attachment figures builds safety. This review explores how long-distance relationships impact relationship satisfaction and partner attunement, considering modern communication technologies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Communication Studies
Background:
- Attachment theory posits that consistent contact with attachment figures is crucial for safety and security throughout life.
- Modern romantic relationships increasingly involve prolonged physical separations due to various life circumstances.
- Understanding the impact of these separations on relationship dynamics is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review contemporary research on the effects of prolonged physical separation in romantic relationships.
- To examine implications for attachment-related dynamics, including relationship satisfaction and psychobiological attunement.
- To discuss the role of computer-mediated communication in maintaining relational bonds.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of contemporary research on relationship separation and attachment.
- Analysis of studies investigating relationship satisfaction and psychobiological attunement in long-distance couples.
- Examination of research on the efficacy of computer-mediated communication (CMC) tools.
Main Results:
- Prolonged separations can challenge attachment dynamics, affecting relationship satisfaction and partner attunement.
- Computer-mediated contact (e.g., video calls, messaging) can partially compensate for physical absence.
- The effectiveness of CMC varies depending on communication frequency, quality, and individual differences.
Conclusions:
- Attachment bonds in romantic relationships are resilient but can be strained by long-term physical separation.
- Technological advancements offer viable, though not perfect, substitutes for physical contact in maintaining relational closeness.
- Future research should explore the psychobiological mechanisms underlying attachment in separated couples and the long-term effects of CMC.
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