Using Difference Scores to Inform Therapy Practice: Differences in Perceptions of Attachment Behaviors between Partners in a Clinical Sample

Keywords

attachment behavior, couples therapy, relationship health

Abstract

Using clinically relevant research methodology, this study focuses on differences (cross‐partner difference scores) in perceptions of attachment behaviors (emotional accessibility, responsiveness, and engagement) between partners in couples therapy. In general, findings suggest that higher levels of self‐enhancement attachment behaviors (participant perceives self as demonstrating more attachment behaviors than the partner's ratings of the participant) are associated with lower relationship satisfaction and greater relationship instability. The association between attachment behavior difference scores and measures of relationship health is mediated through partner perceived positive communication. These results suggest that differences in perceptions between partners’ level of attachment behaviors are an important clinical construct for therapy. As such, clinical recommendations for addressing self‐enhancing attachment behaviors, and the mediating role of positive communication, are discussed with recommendations for researchers.

Original Publication Citation

Sandberg, J. G., Novak, J. R., & Busby, D. M. (2018). Difference scores in attachment behaviors between couples in therapy: Associations with relationship outcomes. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 44, 624-639.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2018-01-16

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/7439

Publisher

Journal of Marital and Family Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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