The Attachment Connection: Unveiling the Link Between Attachment Styles and Adolescent Identity

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between attachment styles and identity development in late adolescents. Utilizing a sample of 74 individuals aged 18-22, the research employs both the Inventory of Parent Peer Attachment, and the Objective Measure of Ego Identity Status to assess attachment styles and identity development, respectively. The findings indicate that there is no association between parental attachment and identity formation in adolescence. The first hypothesis stating that there will be a positive relationship between parental attachment bonds and identity development during late adolescence was rejected.  High levels of parental attachment are associated with lower levels of identity foreclosure and diffusion, while there is no association between high level of parental attachment and identity achievement. Future research should explore longitudinal approaches to further elucidate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms. These findings have practical implications for designing interventions aimed at promoting secure attachment relationships to support identity development during this critical developmental period.