Analysing the relationship between Adverse Childhood Experiences, Attachment Styles and Adult Romantic Satisfaction among Young Adults

Abstract

The research was conducted to analyse the relationship between adverse childhood experiences, attachment styles and adult romantic satisfaction among young adults. 18-35 years aged, young adults, who are dating or married were taken into consideration. Purposeful sampling was used to collect data from 120 adults by distributing a questionnaire. The correlation helped to understand the relationship between the study variables. The findings revealed significant correlations between adverse childhood experiences, attachment styles, and adult romantic satisfaction. Specifically, close attachment levels exhibited a negative and significant relationship with emotional abuse, emotional neglect, and sexual abuse during childhood, while high levels of emotional abuse and physical neglect were negatively and significantly associated with relationship satisfaction. Furthermore, close attachment dimensions showed a positive relationship with relationship satisfaction, whereas no negative relationship was there between dependent attachment and relationship satisfaction, while anxiety attachment styles were negatively and significantly correlated with romantic satisfaction. The insights gleaned from the current research can inform intervention strategies aimed at promoting attachment security and fostering healthy romantic relationships, particularly among individuals with adverse childhood experiences. By addressing these foundational elements, we can strive towards nurturing fulfilling and resilient romantic partnerships in young adulthood and beyond.