Have I Developed An Anxious Attachment Style?

Do you have difficulty trusting others?

Do you constantly worry that your partners will abandon you?

Are you being overly dependent in relationships?

Do you have a low self-worth?

Are you being overly sensitive to a partner’s actions and moods?

Do you crave closeness and intimacy?

Are you being highly emotional, impulsive, unpredictable, and moody?

Do you require frequent reassurance that people care about you?

While it is unlikely that you have developed an anxious attachment style, you are displaying one or two signs related to it. The baby-caregiver relationship is important to a baby’s development. Babies rely on caregivers for their well-being, and they also learn early social skills by observing the caregiver. The way a caregiver interacts with a baby can have an influence on the type of attachment style that a child develops. Babies of caregivers who are neglectful, emotionally available, and abusive, are likely to develop anxious attachment. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, it is very unlikely that you have developed an anxious attachment style.

Based on your answers, you are displaying some signs related to an anxious attachment style. People who have developed an anxious attachment style can have difficulties feeling secure in adult relationships. As young children, they may cling to caregivers and become extremely upset when the caregiver leaves. As an adult, they may be jealous or insecure about relationships. This attachment style can increase risk for anxiety disorders and low self-esteem in adult life. It is possible to move toward a more secure attachment style, but it takes patience and effort. You can always reach out to a therapist.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have developed an anxious attachment style. You may be prone to jealousy and have other insecurities about relationships. You may need constant reassurance and affection from your partner. You may also have difficulties being alone or single. Luckily, you can restructure your thoughts to move toward a more secure attachment style. It may be useful to reach out to a therapist who can help you with this the best way possible.