Quality of close relationships from the viewpoint of attachment theory

Abstract

Studies into the problems of attachment in the period of adulthood and the impact of the type of attachment on close interpersonal relationships is of great importance as the complex nature of functioning of close partner relationships has not been fully understood yet. Exploration of the meaning of attachment in adulthood and its impact on close relations can prove helpful in understanding and solving some problems in family functioning (Plopa, 2003). It is also important to take into account the styles of partners attachment in psychological consultations as making the partners aware of their strategy of attachment and its consequences for the quality of relationship and its functioning can enhance the effectiveness of therapy. Results of recent studies into the functioning of partners representing a certain style of attachment are expected to be useful for development of a diagnostic technique for identification of disturbances in the partners’ relations and for increasing the social awareness of problems in marriage and cohabitation. To sum up, contemporary studies within the theory of attachment significantly enrich the knowledge in the field and make empirical grounds for development of new therapeutic methods (Józefik, Iniewicz, 2008).