Attachment style and relationship satisfaction in intimate relationships of adult children of alcoholics
Date
2012-07-30
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Abstract
A population in which little research exists is with adult children of alcoholics (ACOAs), specifically in regards to their functioning in intimate relationships. This study examined attachment styles and levels of relationship satisfaction of ACOAs and adult children of non-alcoholics (ACONAs) in current intimate relationships. Analyses were also completed examining differences that may exist between maternal versus paternal alcoholism, as well as gender differences among ACOAs. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire along with the Children of Alcoholics Screening Test, Experiences in Close Relationships Scale-Revised, and Couples Satisfaction Index. Findings demonstrated that ACOAs reported more insecure attachment styles and lower relationship satisfaction than ACONAs. No significant results were found when analyzing maternal versus paternal differences or between-gender differences. Potential counselling implications include developing a stronger therapeutic alliance between client and counsellor in individual, couple, and group therapy, along with enhanced interventions based on differences in attachment styles and relationship satisfaction.
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Educational Psychology, Education--Guidance and Counseling
Citation
Resch, M. (2012). Attachment style and relationship satisfaction in intimate relationships of adult children of alcoholics (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/25062