B4479 - The role of attachment in infancy with mental and physical health and relationship outcomes in early adulthood 3 - 04/12/2023

B number: 
B4479
Principal applicant name: 
Alexandria Andrayas | School of Psychological Science (UK)
Co-applicants: 
Professor Marcus Munafo, Noah Chambers
Title of project: 
The role of attachment in infancy with mental and physical health, and relationship outcomes, in early adulthood 3
Proposal summary: 

Attachment theory suggests that when babies are born, their main aim is to connect with and stay close to their caregiver. This behaviour has developed over time to help them survive. Scientists have come up with different attachment styles, like secure, avoidant, anxious, and disorganised. Previous studies have found that how well a child bonds with their caregiver can affect things like blood pressure, stress, habits, self-esteem, wellbeing and how they form and keep stable adult relationships. The upcoming research project will investigate the strength and direction of the relationship between attachment and later health and relationship outcomes.

Impact of research: 
If attachment does influence physical and mental health outcomes, and relationship satisfaction, then interventions to improve attachment may improve these outcomes. Health promotion related to these outcomes may also be specifically targeted to those with insecure attachment, given that they will be more likely to experience adverse mental and physical health and relationship outcomes.
Date proposal received: 
Thursday, 30 November, 2023
Date proposal approved: 
Monday, 4 December, 2023
Keywords: 
Epidemiology, Behaviour - e.g. antisocial behaviour, risk behaviour, etc., Statistical methods, Development