Adult attachment style, self- esteem and professional satisfaction

Graduation Date

2014

Document Type

Thesis

Program

Other

Program

Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, Psychology: Counseling, 2014

Committee Chair Name

Emily Sommerman

Committee Chair Affiliation

HSU Faculty or Staff

Keywords

Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Psychology, Professional satisfaction, Attachment style, Self- esteem

Abstract

Attachment theory is gaining attention in vocational psychology as it shows relevance in the work place by providing insight into an individual and is seen as an influencing factor on cognition and behavior across situations (Richards Schat, 2011). Four working categories of adult attachment include: secure attachment, dismissing- avoidant attachment, preoccupied attachment and fearful-avoidant attachment (Bartholomew, 1990). High self- esteem is another mediating factor and influences goals, job related strategies and career success, as defined by pay and early life career satisfaction (Judge and Hurst, 2008). This study looks into the relationship between an individual's attachment style and level of self-esteem in relation to professional satisfaction. 143 subjects answered the following questionnaires via an online survey: The Experiences in Close Relationships Scale (ECR-R), The Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale and the Job Satisfaction Survey (JSS). Results have found a significant relationship between attachment style and professional satisfaction. Securely attached subjects reported the highest levels of job satisfaction, followed by preoccupied subjects, dismissive avoidant subjects and fearful avoidant subject, respectively. Insecure attachment is related to a decrease in job satisfaction, as traits of anxiety and avoidance have a moderate negative correlation with job satisfaction. Self- esteem was found to have a moderate positive correlation to professional satisfaction. These results suggest attachment style and level of self- esteem as relevant influences on professional satisfaction.

https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/6h440v82v

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