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The Link between Attachment Style and Self-Reported Olfactory Ability: A Preliminary Investigation
Amy Shell1, Anna Blomkvist2, Mehmet K Mahmut1
1Food, Flavour and Fragrance Lab, School of Psychological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney 2109, Australia.
Brain Sciences
|October 23, 2021
Summary
Attachment insecurity in romantic relationships is linked to poorer olfactory functioning in women. This suggests body odors may play a role in attachment and relationship maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Relationship Science
Background:
- Healthy relationships benefit psychological and physiological health.
- Research primarily focuses on adult attachment's impact on relationships.
- The role of olfaction in relationships is an emerging area of study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the connection between attachment tendencies and olfactory functioning.
- To explore the role of olfaction in romantic relationship maintenance.
Main Methods:
- Online quasi-experimental design.
- 401 undergraduate students (predominantly female, aged 17-70).
- Questionnaires assessing attachment, olfactory ability, and relationship experiences.
Main Results:
- Attachment insecurity (anxiety and avoidance) correlated with reduced olfactory functioning in females.
- Preliminary evidence suggests olfaction is linked to romantic relationship maintenance.
Conclusions:
- Body odors may be fundamental in activating the attachment system.
- Findings open new research avenues for treating olfactory deficits and insecure attachment.
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