Attachment is an emotional bond that develops between individuals who are biologically, socially, or professionally linked to each other. It can be formed when people live together for an extended period and share common goals, experiences, and ideas. Attachments may vary from mild to strong depending on the level of commitment. They are usually based on shared interests, beliefs, and values. But attachment bonds form even when there is no apparent reason for them to do so. In life-threatening missions, this happens because survival depends on the successful completion of the mission. This means that people need to work together to achieve their goal regardless of personal differences or individual needs. The psychological processes underlying the formation of these bonds are described below.
The individual must experience fear to trigger the formation of an attachment bond. Fear causes physical changes in the body that prepare it for action. These include increased heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and energy expenditure. They also cause tension, anxiety, and worry. The brain releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline that increase alertness and concentration. When a person feels threatened by danger, they seek out others who have similar beliefs about how to respond to the threat. People with different views tend to separate themselves from those with opposing viewpoints.
The individual must perceive a threat to feel safe. A sense of safety comes from knowing that someone has your back. This feeling allows you to trust the other person and rely on them during difficult situations. When two individuals share a common purpose, they become more likely to depend on each other. Mutual dependence reinforces the attachment bond between them. It becomes easier to cooperate when both parties feel secure and supported. Attachment bonds often form when people face risks together.
The individual must recognize the value of the relationship. Recognition occurs through shared experiences.
Soldiers who fight alongside one another develop strong attachments due to shared dangers and victories. In such cases, the individual recognizes the other's importance in their lives. As they work towards a common goal, they develop respect and admiration for each other. Shared interests, values, and beliefs further enhance this recognition.
The individual must accept the relationship as part of their identity. Acceptance is based on the understanding that the relationship will last beyond the mission. When two people connect deeply during life-threatening missions, they may continue communicating and supporting each other after returning home. They may even take up new challenges together. The level of commitment depends on personal experiences and feelings. Some people want to keep things casual while others prefer long-term relationships.
What psychological processes underlie the formation of attachment bonds during life-threatening missions?
The ability to form strong and stable attachments during life-threatening situations is an important aspect of human development. Attachment theory, proposed by John Bowlby (1969), suggests that early experiences with caregivers shape our capacity for developing secure relationships later on in life. In a life-threatening mission, individuals may experience high levels of stress and anxiety which can lead them to seek out support from others, such as teammates or family members.