Distorted patterns of relationship in maltreating families: The role of internal representation models

Abstract

Attachment theory postulates that a person's internal representational model of relationships (derived from past experiences with relationships) influences the relationships which he or she later forms. If such models exist and function as described, they could explain the infrafamilial and intragenerational dysfunction found in maltreating families. In this study, 124 maltreating and adequate families were observed for approximately 10 hours at home and in one laboratory visit. Data were gathered on the following current relationships: parent-child, parent-partner, parent-network, parent-professional. The Separating Anxiety Test was used to assess the parents' models of relationships as derived from childhood experiences. Data on the relationships were analysed to identify the underlying patterns. Each subject was then assigned to a pattern (separately for each relationship). The association of these patterns with the maltreatment groups was tested and substantiated. The data on the patterns were submitted to discriminant analysis; two significant functions (the first a cooperation/interference dimension, the second an involved/withdrawn dimension) permitted the correct classification of 84 per cent of the families. The hypotheses of continuities among relationships and differences in patterns by maltreatment group were support. These results are consistent with the explanation of internal representational models of relationships.