The Dual Function Model of Attachment Security Priming: Theoretical Framework and Empirical Evidence

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroendocrinology
• Attachment Theory

Background:

• Attachment theory posits that secure attachment figures provide a safe haven and a secure base.
• The Dual Function Model of Security Priming (DFSP) suggests security priming can elicit one of these two functions.
• Contextual stress levels determine which function is activated by security priming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the Dual Function Model of Security Priming (DFSP).
• To investigate the effects of attachment security priming on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) activity.
• To examine cortisol responses under varying stress conditions following security priming.

Main Methods:

• Participants were exposed to security-related cues.
• Experimental conditions included high-stress and low/no-stress contexts.
• Salivary cortisol concentrations were measured as an indicator of HPA activity.

Main Results:

• Security priming significantly decreased salivary cortisol when presented after a stressor (safe haven effect).
• Security priming significantly increased salivary cortisol when presented before a stressor (secure base effect).
• Cortisol levels reflect both stress response and general energy mobilization.

Conclusions:

• The DFSP model is supported by empirical evidence.
• Attachment security priming has dual effects on HPA activity, contingent on stress context.
• Security priming can either reduce stress (safe haven) or mobilize energy (secure base).