Attachment Security and Continuing Bonds: The Mediating Role of Meaning-Made in Bereavement. Issue 2 (17th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tidwell, Brandy L.; Larson, Elizabeth D.; Bentley, Jacob A.
• Is Part Of: Journal of loss and trauma. Volume 26:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 116
• Page End: 133
• Publication Date: 2021-02-17
• Subjects: Bereavement -- grief -- attachment -- continuing bonds -- meaning; Loss (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Adjustment (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Life change events -- Periodicals; Interpersonal relations -- Periodicals; 154.4
• DOI: 10.1080/15325024.2020.1753389
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1532-5024

Abstract

Abstract: Attachment security plays an important function in the grieving process. This study aimed to explore how individual differences in attachment security and meaning-made predict continuing bonds expression among bereaved adults ( n = 237) using a moderated mediation model. Results of multiple regression analysis revealed an indirect effect of meaning-made on the negative relationship between attachment avoidance and continuing bonds. Results suggest that loss may be less disruptive to the meaning system of avoidant individuals and, therefore, avoidant individuals may express continuing bonds to a lesser extent. Findings implicate bereavement adjustment and grief-related interventions tailored to individual differences in attachment.