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Being Secure Means Being Willing to Say You're Sorry: Attachment Style and the Communication of Relational Dissatisfaction and Disengagement

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 August 2013

Patricia A. Pizzano ,
John C. Sherblom  and
Laura R. Umphrey
Patricia A. Pizzano
Affiliation:
Department of Political Science, University of Nevada, Reno, Nevada, USA
John C. Sherblom*
Affiliation:
Department of Communication and Journalism, University of Maine, Orono, Maine, USA
Laura R. Umphrey
Affiliation:
School of Communication, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
*
ADDRESS FOR CORRESPONDENCE: John C. Sherblom, Department of Communication and Journalism, University of Maine, 5724 Dunn Hall, Orono, Maine, ME 04469-5724USA. Email: john@maine.edu
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Abstract

The present study examines the influence of attachment style on the communication choices people make in response to relational dissatisfaction and disengagement. A path analysis models these choices, showing that a secure attachment style predicts the use of voice and de-escalation. A preoccupied style predicts neglect, loyalty, and de-escalation. A dismissing-avoidant style also leads to neglect and loyalty, but predicts behavioural de-escalation. Finally, a fearful-avoidant style indicates more limited communication choices and relational exit. The model shows the possibility of strategically made communication choices changing the results of these attachment style outcomes. Pathways through the model show that active communication choices lead to more positive long-term relational outcomes and passive choices predict relational challenges.

Keywords

attachmentsecurerelationshipsatisfactiondisengagementcommunication
Type
Research Article
Information
Journal of Relationships Research , Volume 4 , 25 October 2013 , e7
Creative Commons
This is a work of the U.S. Government and is not subject to copyright protection in the United States.
Copyright
Copyright © The Author(s), published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of Australian Academic Press Pty Ltd 2013

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