How Can I Become More Secure?: A Grounded Theory of Earning Secure Attachment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a grounded theory of earning secure attachment. This study included 15 women and 5 men who met the criteria of having a self‐reported history of attachment insecurity and demonstrated evidence of earned security. The grand tour research question, How do adults with a history of insecure attachment earn security?, was explored using constructivist grounded theory and semi‐structured interviews emphasizing processes of positive attachment change. The results describe a process model of change hinging on three interrelated categories: meta‐conditions of positive attachment change, making intrapsychic changes, and making interpersonal changes. Clinical implications include the importance of clients committing to the process, clients working with a clinician trained in trauma‐focused therapy, and clinicians being surrogate attachment figures for clients.

Attachment Styles and the Family Systems of Individuals Affected by Substance Abuse

“…Focusing on attachment systems in treatment may involve the therapist taking on the role of an attachment figure through the therapeutic process (Cihan et al, 2014; Dansby Olufowote et al, 2019; Fletcher et al, 2015; Saunders et al, 2011). During counseling, clinicians focus on developing strong therapeutic relationships with clients to facilitate a safe space for clients to explore their attachment needs and fears.…”

“…In focusing on attachment systems within counseling, it is important that counselors remember that although attachment styles are pliable, helping a client develop a more productive way of relating to self and others takes time (Dansby Olufowote et al, 2019; Saunders et al, 2011). While working with attachment systems can be helpful, it is an emotional process of understanding the underlying factors that contribute to the development of the attachment system.…”

“…This involves discussing the client’s relationship across the life span including family system, peer relationships in adolescence, and intimate partner relationships in adulthood (Bowlby, 1988). For some clients, this might be a difficult, emotional experience, and it is important for counselors to help prepare clients for this process (e.g., using self as another human who experiences difficulty, validating the difficulty of the experience, giving the client time and space to process; Bowlby, 1988; Dansby Olufowte et al, 2019; Saunders et al, 2011).…”

“…However, it is also important to think about the ethical considerations in this process. The role of the therapist in becoming a surrogate attachment figure is to help the client adjust and transform their IWM (Bowlby, 1988; Dansby Olufowote et al, 2019; Ruisard, 2016; Saunders et al, 2011). As the therapist is developing the relationship with the client, it is crucial to communicate to the client that they are important, belong in this world, and have the power to change.…”

“…Researchers found positive attachments between a parent and child may protect young people from substance abuse (McLaughlin et al, 2016). Thus, it is important to provide opportunities for families to learn that attachment styles are pliable (Dansby Olufowote et al, 2019) and that change may help empower families to transform their relationships (Ruisard, 2016). Furthermore, a secure attachment in the therapeutic relationship may increase the ability for healthy emotional regulation and affect tolerance while helping clients restrain from substance abuse (Gidhagen et al, 2018).…”