Attachment styles as a predictor to behaviour and emotional difficulties in adolescents

Abstract

Attachment Theory as explained by John Bowlby and later studied by Mary Ainsworth identify 4 types of attachments; Secure attachment, Insecure-Ambivalent, Insecure-Avoidant, and Disorganised Attachment. Due to the nature of Insecure attachment, adolescents might show behavioural and emotional problems depending on the type of attachment formed at infancy. The research question reads: Does a correlation between attachment styles and behaviour and emotional difficulties in adolescents exist? The search was performed utilizing several reliable databases. The inclusion criteria included, studies published in the last 15 years, child and adolescents, English language, peer reviewed articles and studies focusing on the relationship between attachment styles and emotion or behavioural difficulties. On the other hand, in the exclusion criteria were studies published more than 15 years ago and not in the English language, the adult population, non-peer reviewed articles and studies that focused on one specific diagnosis. In order to evaluate and analyse the chosen literature throughout this dissertation, two critical appraisal frameworks were utilised; CASP and AXIS. After the analysation process, the studies showed that there is a correlation between attachment style and emotional and behaviour difficulties in adolescents. However, this correlation could be strengthened in future studies if a larger sample size is examined. Apart from this, it would be beneficial if studies were conducted locally in order to examine whether this correlation is also present within the local context. Throughout this dissertation, suggestions will be made regarding future research, and the utilisation of findings in practice and policy making. Lastly, recommendations for dissemination and education will be provided.