The Relationship between Attachment Types and Drug of Choice: A Cluster Analysis

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the differences between specific attachment patterns regarding the tendency to use certain substances in a large general population sample. Methods: A total sample of 616 German-speaking participants (61.9% female; Mean age = 30 years, SD = 9.53) was investigated with the Adult Attachment Scale (AAS) and the WHO Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (WHO-ASSIST). Based on an initial cluster analysis of the AAS results, four attachment clusters were identified (secure, avoidant, anxious and disorganized). These groups were then compared in terms of their drug of choice. Results: Findings indicated several significant differences between attachment clusters. Specifically, disorganized attachment patterns showed increased tendencies regarding tranquilizers and opioid abuse compared to avoidant, anxious and secure attachment patterns. Discussion: Results underscore previous observations regarding the increased vulnerability of disorganized attached individuals in terms of problematic substance use and highlight its specific connection to sedative substances. Theoretical and clinical implications of this finding are discussed.