The Relationship between Attachment Styles and Relationship Satisfaction among Young Adults

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between attachment styles within romantic relationships and relationship satisfaction among young adults. A sample of 100 participants was recruited from various cities including Noida, Delhi, Gurugram and Ghaziabad out of which, 50 participants were males and 50 were females, aged 18 to 39 years. They completed various self-report assessments measuring their attachment style in close as well as romantic relationships, satisfaction in their current romantic relationships, and their overall experience in close relationships. The scales utilized to test these variables were: The Adult Attachment Scale-Revised (AAS), Relationship Assessment Scale (RAS), and Experience in Close Relationship Scale (ECR-S). Data collection involved utilizing a blend of methods, encompassing online surveys via Google Forms and the distribution of hard copies of questionnaires to the participants. Individuals who exhibited secure attachment styles or intimate attachment tendencies were more likely to be currently involved in romantic partnerships and reported higher levels of satisfaction with their relationships compared to those with insecure attachment styles. Correlation analysis revealed a notable link between close attachment style and relationship satisfaction. However, there was no significant connection found between anxious attachment or dependent attachment and relationship satisfaction. The study’s limitations, including reliance on self-report measures and theoretical considerations such as variability in attachment research approaches, were discussed. Suggestions for future research included employing longitudinal studies to better understand how attachment styles and close relationships influence later relationship dynamics.