Support Processes Predict Declines in Attachment Avoidance Across the Transition to Parenthood.
Level 3 - non-randomized controlled study
Prospective longitudinal cohort study across five time points (by design analogy, not clinical CEBM)
PubMed 33012217 · doi:10.1177/0146167220960365
What was done
A longitudinal cohort study followed 137 couples transitioning to parenthood across the first two years of their firstborn child's life. Both partners provided data across five time points. The study evaluated changes specifically in attachment avoidance and examined whether relationship events—such as providing partner support—that introduced information incongruent with avoidant working models were associated with declines in avoidance.
What was found
The abstract reports directional findings without numerical values, effect sizes, or test statistics. Downward changes in attachment avoidance were associated with relationship events inconsistent with avoidant working models. Specifically, individuals who provided more support to their partners demonstrated declines in avoidance across the transition period.
Why it matters
This study provides evidence that adult attachment orientations can systematically shift during major life transitions when interpersonal experiences contradict existing internal working models.
Limits
The abstract reports no numerical data, effect sizes, or confidence intervals. The sample was restricted to 137 couples undergoing the transition to a first child, limiting generalizability to other populations or life events. Only attachment avoidance was assessed, omitting attachment anxiety. The observational design cannot definitively establish causality.
Cited by
- supports Longitudinal studies of couples demonstrate that individuals' attachment orientations can change over time, allowing someone with an avoidant attachment style to become more secure with the right partner.