Avoidant attachment is characterized by independence, difficulty trusting others, and avoiding emotional intimacy.
Someone might develop avoidant attachment if their childhood caregiver was neglectful, emotionally closed, strict, or detached.
This article explores the avoidant attachment style.
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Below are the defining traits of an avoidant attachment style in childhood and adulthood.
Childhood
Beginning in infancy, you learn about the world through your connection to parents or caregivers.
In Adults
Adults who have avoidant attachment can appear self-confident and friendly and have manyalbeit often surface-levelfriendships.
Their avoidant behaviors become more apparent during stressful periods or within romantic partnerships.
Sensitive and responsive parenting is the best way to provide a secure attachment style for your child.
How Does an Avoidant Attachment Style Start?
Effects of Avoidant Attachment
Having an avoidant attachment style can significantly impact your relationships as an adult.
It can also influence how you see yourself.
This behavior can cause issues when partners sense them pulling away or avoiding closeness.
They frequently turn to work or hobbies as a coping strategy to avoid the relationship.
This can, obviously, create problems in your relationships.
Hopefully, your partner understands and can offer you what you need.
The key is not to “chase” or pressure them to share their feelings before they are ready.
Instead, research shows that highly avoidant people feel calmed by instrumental support rather than emotional support.
This may sound familiar to those acquainted withthe five love languagesof giving and receiving love.
Be conscious that your partner values their independence.
At the same time, respecting and upholding your own needs is essential.
You deserve to feel valued by your partner and be able to be emotionally intimate with them.
Children with avoidant attachment may seem aloof, distant, or self-reliant.
Educating yourself about your attachment style is a good first step to addressing these issues.
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