The concept of adult sexual attachment is based on attachment theory from psychology, which describes the emotional bonds between people. In attachment theory, people have an innate need to form secure attachments with others for survival and wellbeing. This need drives them to seek out relationships that offer safety, comfort, and stability. When they find such a relationship, they become attached to their partner and develop a strong bond that can last a lifetime. Adult sexual attachment involves similar principles but focuses specifically on romantic and sexual relationships. It explores why people feel jealousy, possessiveness, or devotion towards their partners in long-term relationships.
Attachment styles are determined by early childhood experiences, so different people will have different levels of attachment anxiety or avoidance. Anxious individuals fear rejection and abandonment and crave constant reassurance from their partner. They may become clingy or possessive in a long-term relationship because they worry about losing it. Avoidant individuals fear intimacy and may push away potential partners, even if they want to be in a committed relationship. They may struggle with feelings of vulnerability and jealousy because they have trouble opening up emotionally.
People with secure attachment styles tend to have healthier relationships, as they trust their partner and themselves.
They can still experience jealousy or insecurity, especially when their partner shows signs of attraction to other people. Securely attached couples often work through these issues together through open communication and trust-building activities like joint projects or date nights.
Long-term relationships can also cause changes in attachment styles over time. People may grow closer or more distant depending on how satisfied they are with the relationship. Those who stay in unhealthy relationships may become anxious or avoidant due to negative experiences. Those who leave an abusive relationship may become more confident and secure in future relationships. The level of attachment anxiety in both partners affects whether they perceive jealousy positively (as a sign of commitment) or negatively (as a threat).
Adult sexual attachment theory suggests that devotion is the ultimate goal of a successful long-term relationship. When both partners feel secure in their bond, they may develop a deep sense of love and loyalty towards each other. This can lead them to prioritize the relationship above all else, making sacrifices for each other's happiness and wellbeing. It requires selflessness and a willingness to put the needs of the other person first.
How does adult sexual attachment theory explain patterns of jealousy, possessiveness, or devotion in long-term relationships?
Adult sexual attachment theory explains that there are two types of attachments - secure and insecure. Secure attachments involve individuals who feel comfortable with their partner's independence and trust them not to abandon them emotionally or physically. Insecure attachments refer to people whose fear of rejection leads them to be overly dependent on their partners or exhibit behaviors such as jealousy, possessiveness, or devotion.