Category
Basic
Description
Previous research suggests that attachment style plays an important role in relational patterns (e.g., cyclical relationships and relationship renewals). Attachment theory explores how individuals approach relational trust, dependence, and intimacy. Avoidant and anxious attachment are commonly attributed to instability in romantic relationships. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between cyclical relationships and insecure attachment styles. Cyclical relationships are characterized by repeatedly breaking up and renewing the relationship between the same partners. Anxious attachment is defined by fear of abandonment, clinginess, emotional instability, and a constant need for reassurance. Avoidant attachment is characterized by emotional unavailability, avoidance to resolving conflict, and a desire for independence. First, we hypothesize there will be an association between attachment anxiety and an increase in the number of romantic relationships. Secondly, there will be an association between insecure attachment and an increase in the number of cyclical relationships. Thirdly, there will be an association between insecure attachment and an increase in relationship renewals. Fourthly, there will be an association between attachment anxiety and an increase in the initiation of relationship renewals. Finally, there will be an association between attachment avoidance and an increase in the initiation of breakups in relationships. Data was collected using a cross-sectional survey design with Liberty University students. Understanding this connection between insecure attachment patterns and cyclical relationships may provide insight into the behaviors and habits that keep individuals in unhealthy relationships, and how to break unhealthy bonds to prevent the occurrence of cyclical relationships. Future research can explore the research topic across various generations, cultural contexts, and factors such as marriage and divorce rates. Researchers may explore how poor mental health is associated with cyclical relationships and attachment styles. Additionally, they can use longitudinal research designs in counseling settings to discover whether therapeutic intervention is beneficial.
Cyclical Relationships & Attachment Theory
Basic
Previous research suggests that attachment style plays an important role in relational patterns (e.g., cyclical relationships and relationship renewals). Attachment theory explores how individuals approach relational trust, dependence, and intimacy. Avoidant and anxious attachment are commonly attributed to instability in romantic relationships. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between cyclical relationships and insecure attachment styles. Cyclical relationships are characterized by repeatedly breaking up and renewing the relationship between the same partners. Anxious attachment is defined by fear of abandonment, clinginess, emotional instability, and a constant need for reassurance. Avoidant attachment is characterized by emotional unavailability, avoidance to resolving conflict, and a desire for independence. First, we hypothesize there will be an association between attachment anxiety and an increase in the number of romantic relationships. Secondly, there will be an association between insecure attachment and an increase in the number of cyclical relationships. Thirdly, there will be an association between insecure attachment and an increase in relationship renewals. Fourthly, there will be an association between attachment anxiety and an increase in the initiation of relationship renewals. Finally, there will be an association between attachment avoidance and an increase in the initiation of breakups in relationships. Data was collected using a cross-sectional survey design with Liberty University students. Understanding this connection between insecure attachment patterns and cyclical relationships may provide insight into the behaviors and habits that keep individuals in unhealthy relationships, and how to break unhealthy bonds to prevent the occurrence of cyclical relationships. Future research can explore the research topic across various generations, cultural contexts, and factors such as marriage and divorce rates. Researchers may explore how poor mental health is associated with cyclical relationships and attachment styles. Additionally, they can use longitudinal research designs in counseling settings to discover whether therapeutic intervention is beneficial.
