The importance of relational support for attachment and exploration needs

Abstract

In this article, we discuss theory and research on social support and caregiving processes in adult close relationships. We first outline key theoretical principles of attachment theory and of a theoretical perspective on thriving through relationships that builds on attachment theory. We then review empirical research that has tested key theoretical postulates regarding the importance of relational support for both attachment and exploration needs. The empirical review is divided into two components that reflect the two major functions of support/caregiving in close relationships, and that reflect the two different life contexts in which relational support/care is crucial (support in adversity and support for exploration and pursuit of opportunities). We conclude by emphasizing important directions for future research.

Recovering the Relational Starting Point of Compassion Training: A Foundation for Sustainable and Inclusive Care

“…Attachment theory links infants’ experiences with early caregivers to the subsequent development of interpersonal capacities through adulthood, including self-efficacy, curiosity, empathy, courage, compassion, and prosocial behavior (Feeney & Collins, 2019; Mikulincer & Shaver, 2005; Narvaez et al, 2013; Shaver, Mikulincer, & Cassidy, 2019; Shaver et al, 2016). In times of distress, infants seek to maintain proximity to and solicit care from caregivers, primarily through vocal and facial cues of distress.…”

“…Care that is sporadic or contingent fosters a sense of insecurity within infants—that care is not always available and is not unconditional. In short, sensitive and responsive care for others is facilitated by the experience of having received care from supportive others (Feeney & Collins, 2019).…”

“…Alternatively, feelings of insecurity combined with empathic distress can yield compulsive caregiving, in which caregiving is a strategy for satisfying personal unmet needs for social connection, approval, and reassurance. Corresponding caregiving efforts may be insensitive, intrusive, or chaotic (Feeney & Collins, 2019; Shaver et al, 2019). Meanwhile, those with a secure attachment orientation are more likely to respond and help others in a more sensitive, other-focused manner (Shaver et al, 2016).…”

Recovering the relational starting point of compassion training: A foundation for sustainable and inclusive care.

“…Barrier 1: Lack of an adequately secure base. Attachment theory links infants' experiences with early caregivers to the subsequent development of interpersonal capacities through adulthood, including selfefficacy, curiosity, empathy, courage, compassion, and prosocial behavior (Feeney & Collins, 2019;Shaver, Mikulincer, & Cassidy, 2019;Shaver et al, 2016). In times of distress, infants seek to maintain proximity to and solicit care from caregivers, primarily through vocal and facial cues of distress.…”

Turkish Adaptation of Intimate Adult Relationship Questionnaire - Short Form

“…Çocukluk döneminde kurulan yakın ilişkilerde birincil bağlanma figürleri ebeveynler veya bakım verenlerken, yetişkinlik döneminde eş ya da uzun süreli romantik ilişkilerdeki partnerler birincil bağlanma figürü rolünü üstlenirler (Doherty ve Feeney, 2004;Mikulincer ve Shaver, 2007). Çok sayıda araştırma bulgusu, yetişkinlik döneminde güven, duyarlılık, anlayış, takdir etme, destek olma ve bakım verme süreçlerini içeren romantik ilişkilerin bireyin hem fiziksel sağlığının (Lister ve ark., 2016;Robles, Slatcher, Trombello ve McGinn, 2014;Selcuk, Stanton, Slatcher ve Ong, 2017;Wearden, Tarrier ve Davies, 2000;Wilson, Martire ve Sliwinski, 2017) hem de psikolojik iyilik hali, olumlu duygudurum ve benlik saygısının (Feeney ve Collins 2019;Proulx, Helms ve Buehler, 2007;Selcuk, Gunaydin, Ong ve Almeida, 2016;Taşfiliz ve ark., 2018) en önemli yordayıcılarından biri olduğunu ortaya koymaktadır.…”