What Is My Attachment Style Quiz

Attachment styles refer to the patterns of behavior and emotional responses that individuals develop in their relationships, particularly in the context of close and intimate connections. These styles are influenced by early experiences with caregivers and shape how individuals perceive and interact with others throughout their lives. There are four main attachment styles: secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant.

A secure attachment style is characterized by a healthy balance of independence and intimacy, with individuals feeling comfortable both being close to others and having their own space. They generally have positive views of themselves and others, and are able to form and maintain healthy relationships. An anxious-preoccupied attachment style involves a strong desire for closeness and fear of abandonment, often leading to clingy and dependent behaviors. Individuals with this style tend to have low self-esteem and high levels of anxiety in relationships. Dismissive-avoidant attachment style is marked by a tendency to avoid emotional intimacy and maintain distance from others. These individuals often have a positive view of themselves but a negative view of others, and may struggle with commitment and vulnerability. Lastly, fearful-avoidant attachment style combines elements of both anxious and avoidant styles, with individuals desiring closeness but also fearing rejection and abandonment. They often have low self-esteem and struggle with trust and emotional intimacy.

In general there are 4 main attachment style types based on the attachment theory developed by psychologist John Bowlby and further expanded by Mary Ainsworth. These attachment styles describe the way individuals form and maintain relationships with others: 1. Secure Attachment: individuals with a secure attachment style feel comfortable with both intimacy and independence. They have a positive view of themselves and others, and they are able to trust and rely on their partners. They are generally open and responsive in relationships and can effectively communicate their needs and emotions. 2. Anxious-Preoccupied Attachment: people with an anxious-preoccupied attachment style often seek high levels of intimacy and approval from their partners. They tend to worry about their partner's availability and may become overly dependent on them. They often have a negative view of themselves but a positive view of others. They may exhibit clingy behavior and fear rejection or abandonment. 3. Avoidant-Dismissive Attachment: individuals with an avoidant-dismissive attachment style tend to value independence and self-reliance. They may have difficulty trusting others and prefer to maintain emotional distance in relationships. They often have a positive view of themselves but a negative view of others. They may avoid intimacy, suppress their emotions, and have difficulties expressing their needs. 4. Fearful-Avoidant Attachment: people with a fearful-avoidant attachment style often have conflicting desires for both intimacy and independence. They may have a negative view of both themselves and others. They may fear rejection and abandonment but also fear getting too close to others. They may exhibit unpredictable behavior in relationships, alternating between seeking and avoiding intimacy.