Review of Attachment Theory: Familial Predictors, Continuity and Change, and Intrapersonal and Relational Outcomes

ABSTRACT

Initially, the major focus of attachment theory was the parent–child relationship, but Bowlby (1988) also described the attachment system as active over the entire life course. Accordingly, a proliferation of research on attachment theory in the past two decades has addressed an array of familial predictors as well as intrapersonal and relational outcomes of attachment. The purpose of this review is to present: 1) measurement of attachment, 2) family violence, parental depression, and parental divorce as predictors of attachment, 3) (in)stability of attachment over time, 4) impact of attachment on emotion regulation and psychopathology, and 5) influence of attachment on romantic relationship. Special attention is paid to the role of attachment as a mediator between family of origin experiences and outcomes among youth and adults.

KEYWORDS:

• attachment
• caregiving
• child abuse or neglect
• family of origin
• parenthood/parenting
• violence