The influence of Attachment Styles on Empathy and Altruistic Tendencies in Young Adults

Abstract

The current study aimed to explore the impact of attachment styles on empathy and altruistic tendencies among young adults. A sample of 160 participants was assessed using three standardized instruments: the Experiences in Close Relationships–Revised (ECR-R) to measure attachment styles, the Interpersonal Reactivity Index (IRI) to assess empathy, and the Self-Report Altruism Scale (9-SRA) to evaluate altruistic behaviour. Using correlation analysis, independent t-tests, and ANOVA, the study examined relationships between attachment dimensions (secure, anxious, avoidant), gender, empathy, and altruism. Results revealed a weak, non-significant positive correlation between empathy and altruism, and while secure attachment was associated with slightly higher empathy and altruism, these findings were not statistically significant. Significant gender differences were found only in empathy, with females reporting higher levels. The findings partially support existing literature, suggesting trends toward secure attachment fostering empathy, but call for further research using more diverse samples and longitudinal designs. This study contributes to understanding how early relational patterns may influence prosocial traits in emerging adulthood.