Attachment and the Expression of Affection in Romantic Relationships: The Mediating Role of Romantic Love

Abstract

Extant research demonstrates interrelationships among attachment style, love, and affectionate expression, but is less edifying regarding how these constructs work together. Informed by attachment theory (Bowlby, 1980) and the conceptualization of love as a motivational force (Rempel & Burris, 2005), the current study posits love as a mediator of the associations among attachment styles and affectionate communication. To examine this claim, 173 individuals in romantic relationships completed a questionnaire assessing the variables of interest. A path model revealed significant indirect effects (with the exception of the secure attachment style), and love mediated the relationships among preoccupied and dismissive attachment styles and affectionate expression. These findings suggest the important motivating capacity of love, an often overlooked predictor of relational processes.

Keywords:

• Affectionate Communication
• Attachment Styles
• Romantic Love
• Romantic Relationships

Notes

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

Megan R. Dillow

Megan R. Dillow (PhD, The Pennsylvania State University, 2006) and Alan K. Goodboy (PhD, West Virginia University, 2007) are Associate Professors in the Department of Communication Studies at West Virginia University.

San Bolkan

San Bolkan (PhD, University of Texas, Austin, 2007) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at California State University, Long Beach.