Attachment security and factors of authenticity

Author

Ahimsa Tiana

Graduation Date

2015

Document Type

Thesis

Program

Other

Program

Thesis (M.A.)--Humboldt State University, Psychology: Counseling, 2015

Committee Chair Name

Emily Sommerman

Committee Chair Affiliation

HSU Faculty or Staff

Keywords

Secure attachment, Authenticity factors, Humboldt State University -- Theses -- Psychology, Attachment anxiety, Attachment avoidance, Accepting external influence, Self-alienation, Attachment insecurity, Insecure attachment, Attachment security, Authenticity, Attachment, Authentic living

Abstract

Attachment theory concerns the influence of early childhood experience with caregivers on long-lasting patterns with regard to close relationships. The study of authenticity concerns the level of awareness and expression of one's true self. Though previous research suggests a relationship between attachment and authenticity, such research is scant and historically has been limited by lack of clear definitions and/or available measures. The present study examines the relationship between two dimensions of attachment-related insecurity (anxiety and avoidance) and three factors of authenticity (self-alienation, authentic living, accepting external influence) using established measures with strong psychometric properties. Attachment-related insecurity was measured using the Experiences in Close Relationships - Revised questionnaire. Authenticity factors were measured using the Authenticity Scale. Participants completed both measures via an online survey. Results were analyzed using bivariate correlations. Attachment-related anxiety was found to be positively associated with self-alienation and accepting external influence. Attachment-related avoidance was found to be positively associated with self-alienation and accepting external influence, and negatively associated with authentic living. Results are discussed along with implications for future research.

https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/df65v983j

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