Relational Instability in Couples Seeking Therapy: The Contribution of Attachment, Caregiving and Sex

Abstract

Attachment theory postulates that three behavioral systems—attachment, caregiving, and sex—are essential for optimal relationship functioning in couples. We examined the contribution of attachment insecurities, perceived partner support, and sexual satisfaction to relational instability in 274 couples seeking relationship therapy. The results underscore the importance of all three systems for relationship stability, showing that for both men and women, avoidance of intimacy, low perceived partner support, and low sexual satisfaction were significant and concurrent predictors of relational instability. As such, intervening on factors associated with all three behavioral systems might help reduce relationship instability in couples experiencing relationship distress.

Acknowledgments

We thank the therapists at the Clinique de Consultation Conjugale et Familiale Poitras-Wright, Coté forproviding access to their data, as well as all the research assistants who have contributed to data collection.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Funding

Fonds de recherche du Québec - Société et Culture (#2015-RG-178804).