Attachment insecurity and power regulation in intimate relationships. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Overall, Nickola C
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in psychology. Volume 25(2019)
• Page Start: 53
• Page End: 58
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Psychology -- Periodicals; 150.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.03.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-250X

Abstract

Highlights: Attachment processes are central to the diverse ways people regulate power. Power is fundamental to the concerns/goals underlying attachment insecurity. Avoidant strategies regulate power by limiting partner's influence and dependence. Anxious strategies regulate power by amplifying own and partner dependence. Partners counter with their own attempts to balance dependence and power. Abstract : Power and dependence are fundamental to the development of attachment insecurity and attachment insecurity is central in defining different ways people regulate power. This paper applies an integrated power and attachment perspective to advance understanding of the diverse ways people attempt to negotiate dependence and power in adult relationships. The paper demonstrates how: (1) power is integral to the concerns and goals underlying attachment avoidance and anxiety, (2) the situations that activate attachment strategies represent specific power-relevant concerns and goals, (3) the reactions associated with avoidance and anxiety reflect distinct strategies to regulate dependence and control, and (4) partners counter with their own power regulation attempts. The integrative model presented generates new insights into both power and attachment dynamics.