The relationship between adult attachment theory, jealousy, and attitudes towards monogamy
The purpose of this study was to look at how jealousy manifests through different attachment styles, and whether an individual’s attachment style was related to their attitude toward monogamy. The participants consisted of undergraduate psychology students at Eastern Washington University. Participants were assessed and put in to categories based on how they placed in the four attachment styles: secure, preoccupied, dismissive, or fearful. Participants were evaluated on three dimensions of jealousy (cognitive jealousy, emotional jealousy, and behavioral jealousy). Finally, participants were evaluated on their attitude towards monogamy, and whether they viewed monogamy as enhancing to the relationship or a sacrifice for the sake of the relationship. Results showed that all four attachment styles experienced higher emotional jealousy than they did cognitive and behavioral jealousy. Results also showed that all four attachment styles viewed monogamy as enhancing to the relationship. This study provides us with the opportunity to further understand how individuals of each adult attachment style react and relate to their significant others in their relationships. It also allows us to further understand the nature of those relationships in which each attachment style is drawn to in their personal lives.
Personality and Social Contexts, Psychology
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