The relationship between attachment style and placement of parents in adults’ attachment networks over time

Abstract

Using a bull’s-eye hierarchical mapping technique (HMT), the present
study examined placement of parents in adults’ attachment networks
over time. We hypothesized that attachment style would
predict distance at which network members (mother, father, and
romantic partner) would be placed from the core-self over time.
Participants completed the HMT on two occasions, 12 months
apart. Concurrently and over time, fathers were placed further from
the core-self than mothers. Attachment style explained unique variance,
beyond that accounted for by individual and relationship
characteristics. Specifically, network members with whom participants
reported greater attachment insecurity were placed further
from the core-self concurrently. Mothers with whom participants
reported greater attachment insecurity were placed further from
the core-self over time. Unsatisfactory attachment relationships
with father and partner and those marked by higher attachment
insecurity were more likely to be excluded from attachment networks
over time. Findings suggest that attachment style, relationship quality,
romantic relationship status, and parents’ marital status determine
the placement of parents in adults’ attachment networks.

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Identifiers

ORCID for Katherine Carnelley: orcid.org/0000-0003-4064-8576

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