In many species, including humans, the formation of romantic partnerships is accompanied by changes in hormones that promote pair bonding, including oxytocin and vasopressin. These changes are thought to be due to both genetic factors and environmental influences, such as parental care. In some mammals, early separation from parents can lead to increased anxiety and depression in adulthood, which may affect future relationship choices.
There is limited evidence for this effect in humans.
Separation experiences have been found to influence attachment styles, including avoidance and anxious-ambivalent types. Attachment style has been associated with mate choice and communication patterns in adult relationships. In addition, repeated separations during infancy can lead to less secure attachments, while prolonged separations during adolescence are linked to greater independence in later life.
The effects of parental divorce or death on children's relational expectations have been studied extensively. Children who experienced parental loss tend to report lower satisfaction and commitment levels than those without such experiences. They also tend to prioritize emotional connection over physical attractiveness in partner selection. Divorced individuals are more likely to value stability and security in their own relationships and are less likely to view divorce positively.
Repeated exposure to unstable relationships during childhood can lead to negative beliefs about love and intimacy. Adults who grew up in unstable families may seek out secure relationships but be wary of commitment. They may also have difficulty regulating emotions and perceive threats to the relationship. This could lead to more frequent conflicts and breakups.
Research suggests that parental separations and other experiences of abandonment can shape relational expectations by altering hormonal balance, attachment styles, and beliefs about love and intimacy. These factors can influence both the formation and maintenance of romantic partnerships across the lifespan. More research is needed to understand how these influences interact and how they may change with age and experience.
How do repeated separations shape the evolution of relational expectations?
Separation is a natural part of life for all living beings, and humans are no exception. In fact, our ability to survive is based on our capacity to adapt to changes in our environment, which includes the experience of separation from others. Relational expectations are formed through interactions with other people and can change depending on their frequency, duration, and intensity.