Adult attachment styles and body image attitudes

Abstract

Studies concerning body image attitudes within the Attachment Theory perspective are very limited. The study undertaken attempted to investigate the relationship between attachment styles and body image attitudes (involving evaluation, investment and affect) in a young adult population. Specifically, individuals comprising a negative attachment self-model (preoccupied and fearful), characterised by feelings of unworthiness, were expected to show more negative body image attitudes when compared to those with a positive self-model (secure and preoccupied). A questionnaire assessing adult attachment styles and body image attitudes was given out to 150 male and female university students. The results were analyzed using statistical tests. It resulted that individuals with a negative attachment self-model did differ from those with a positive attachment self-model on particular body image attitudes (investment and affect). Hence it was shown that a relationship between attachment styles and body image attitudes is present. Ultimately the study shows that there is a need for further exploration of this issue, given that in the long run this may allow for the utilization of more effective techniques and therapies in the prevention and treatment of body image disorders.