Studia Doctoralia.

Psychology and Educational Science, 1 (2023) 11-23

The role of abandonment schema in the relationship between attachment styles and
couple satisfaction
Ana Mihailov
University of Bucharest

ARTICLE INFO ABSTRACT

The present study aims to investigate the role of

Article history: abandonment schema in the relationship between
Received 10-February-2023 attachment styles and couple satisfaction. The design of the
Accepted 28-April-2023 research is descriptive, cross-sectional and correlational. A
Available online 01-May-2023 total of 120 people participated, aged between 19 and 55
years, M = 25.67, AS = 8.95, 23 men and 97 women. Only
people involved in a romantic relationship of at least six
This article should be cited as: Mihailov, A. M. (2023). months participated. Data measurement was carried out
The role of abandonment schema in the relationship using the questionnaire, made out of the Abandonment
between attachment styles and couple satisfaction. Studia subscale of The Cognitive Style Questionnaire YSQ-S3, the
Doctoralia. Psychology and Educational Science, Couple Satisfaction Index and the Attachment Style
14(1), 11-23. https://doi.org/10.47040/sdpsych.v14i1.157 Questionnaire Short Form. The statistical results revealed
the first hypothesis to be partially true, showing that secure
This is an open access article under the CC BY license attachment is positively associated with couple satisfaction.
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). Regarding the second hypothesis, it was found to be
partially true as well, as abandonment schema only
Corresponding author at: University of Bucharest, mediates the relationships between anxious attachment
Department of Psychology, 90 Panduri Av, Bucharest, and couple satisfaction and between dependent
RO. attachment and couple satisfaction. The results of the study
Tel.: +40 (0) 31-425.34.45 are consistent with other research in the scientific literature
E-mail address: anca3333@yahoo.com and contribute to the completion of knowledge on the
subject under investigation. Thus, it is proposed more future
research on the subject in question.

Keywords: abandonment, attachment styles, couple

satisfaction

1. INTRODUCTION

Most people experience suffering through social loneliness. Fear of abandonment, developed through
relationships. Therefore, it is natural for individuals' central various experiences, interferes with inner peace and can
fears to revolve around rejection, abandonment, and correlate with multifaceted disruptions in mental health and
11
negative social behaviors (O'Hara et al., 2021). Fear of their working models to new relationships. The person
abandonment is the root of numerous negative emotions incorporates the working models, which are preserved and
and has severe implications on personality structure. It applied in their subsequent romantic life. They organize
creates a state of insecurity, anxiety, and restlessness, cognitions, influence behaviors, and guide reactions to
developing a form of dependency and a continuous need for suffering. Main et al. (1985) argue that internal working
assurance that one will not be abandoned. Additionally, this models direct memory, attention, thinking, affect, and
internal distress has global implications for individuals, often behavior. A child's attachment to their primary caregiver is
manifesting in various types of somatization. linked to various factors such as social competence, self-
Recent studies in developmental psychology indicate esteem, professional development, and life satisfaction. In
the importance of a secure environment in achieving a late adolescence, attachment to the primary caregiver
healthy intrapsychic life. In the United States, abandonment decreases in intensity and frequency. However, there is still
trauma is a central trauma, accounting for 9.2% of a sample a considerable influence of interaction patterns between
of individuals with psychiatric problems who have parents and children on how individuals relate to others
experienced psychological traumas (Kira et al., 2013). The (Bowlby, 1969/1982).
results of a study comparing children with a deceased parent According to Bowlby's model (1973), children with a
and children with separated or divorced parents indicate the secure attachment style are more likely to become self-
same significantly high percentage of suicide in adult life for reliant, having the ability to seek appropriate help when
both groups (Adam., 1973). Therefore, the feeling of needed. In the literature, it has been observed that
abandonment has serious implications in how an individual individuals with a secure attachment style are more likely to
perceives the internal and external world. be involved in a serious relationship, become dedicated and
Given the close connection between satisfaction in a supportive parents, have fewer depressive symptoms, and
relationship and overall life satisfaction, we aim to examine adopt adaptive coping behaviors in stressful situations
the dynamics of individual and dyadic life issues (Dyrdal et (Fraley & Roisman, 2019). The secure attachment style
al., 2010). The abandonment schema, associated with develops based on a healthy relationship with the caregiver,
suffering in both dimensions, may play a possible mediating where the child has learned to trust others because they
role between attachment styles and perceived couple received the trust and emotional support they needed during
satisfaction. Attachment styles provide a framework for childhood.
understanding an individual's behavior and affect dynamics Ainsworth et al. (1978) defined three categories of
within a couple. The styles include anxious, dependent, attachment types: secure, anxious-resistant or ambivalent,
avoidant, and secure. Studies in the literature indicate and avoidant. Feeney et al. (1994) proposed a
significant implications of attachment styles on couple measurement scale with multiple subscales: confident,
satisfaction. Levy and Davis (1988) highlighted the influence uncomfortable with closeness, preoccupied with
of attachment styles on satisfaction within a romantic relationships, discomfort with closeness, placing
relationship. Secure attachment is associated with positive relationships on a secondary level, need for approval,
relationship characteristics, while avoidant attachment preoccupation, avoidant attachment, and anxious
indicates less satisfying relationships. Additionally, anxious- attachment. In the present study, four attachment styles are
ambivalent attachment correlates negatively with positive being investigated: secure, dependent, anxious, and
relationship characteristics. Hammond & Fletcher (1991) avoidant.
highlight the positive correlation between relational Individuals with high levels of anxious attachment tend
satisfaction and secure attachment, and the negative to hyperactivate the attachment system: they are overly
correlation between relational satisfaction and avoidant or sensitive to signs of rejection or acceptance. They direct a
anxious attachment. significant amount of their energy toward the relational
dimension, overinterpreting social cues. Individuals with
Attachment Styles high levels of avoidant attachment function by deactivating
Attachment styles are formed in childhood based on the attachment system: they feel less comfortable getting
personal history and experiences, and they are close to others, evading openness and relational closeness
characteristic of the parent-child relationship. Attachment (Fraley & Shaver, 2000). People can score high levels in
theory refers to the child's adaptive response to the parental both anxious and avoidant attachment, exhibiting attitudes
model of love. An individual's model consists of internal from both response categories.
representations of self and others that start developing from Another problematic direction is the intergenerational
early childhood. Over time, empirical experiences lead to continuity of an unhealthy attachment style. A significant
cognitive generalization, encompassing expectations and number of individuals with an insecure attachment style
perspectives regarding the inner and outer world (Collins, have failed to establish a secure bond with their own
1996). Bowlby (1973) argued that people tend to generalize children. However, there are also numerous parents who
12
have broken the generational cycle, providing an Abandonment schemas form early, starting in
affectionate and protective environment. Younger parents childhood. One essential factor for the optimal functioning,
were more prone to adopting an insecure attachment style well-being, and harmonious development of a child is a
compared to older parents. Distancing from childhood healthy dependency on a trustworthy, sensitive, and
experiences and relationships with parents are supportive responsive parental figure, as postulated in Attachment
factors (Hazan & Shaver, 1987; Main et al., 1985). Theory (Bowlby, 1998). Numerous studies analyze this
relationship and support the theory, particularly emphasizing
Relationship Satisfaction the significance of the maternal figure. Additionally, during
Satisfaction represents the state of happiness childhood and adolescence, various adverse events can
compared to unhappiness, taking into account all aspects of amplify the feeling of abandonment, such as the departure
the environment, situation, person, or object being evaluated of the father figure, placement in foster care, frequent
(Collard, 2006). Individuals in a romantic relationship self- changes in caregivers (Kira et al., 2013).
assess the quality of their relationship through a subjective The negative relationships with the attachment figure
process that varies among individuals. What may be strongly affects feelings and self-confidence in oneself and
satisfying for one person may be dissatisfying for another. the world. The spectrum of abandonment, indifference, and
Bowlby (1969/1982) describes romantic life as one of emotional rejection by the maternal figure has been
the highest values, essential for healthy functioning. It associated with internalized shame (Claesson & Sohlberg,
represents an immense and important dimension of life. The 2002). Shame is an emotion of significance in self-esteem
relationship with a partner is an intimate environment where and the internalization of one's own image, with
the self can express vulnerability. In the literature, considerable effects on the individual's subsequent social
relationship satisfaction is defined as a state of being life. Gilbert (2000) considered shame as a defensive
content with experiences, interactions, and expectations response, typically submissive behavior in a social
within a romantic life, where satisfaction focuses on evolutionary context, closely linked to social anxiety. In other
interactions with the partner (Ward et al., 2009). Perceived studies, shame is associated with aggressive behaviors or
satisfaction with the romantic relationship is closely related conflict avoidance, external blame, low empathic and
to overall life satisfaction (Dyrdal et al., 2010). collaborative skills (Lopez et al., 1997; Tangney, 1995).
Among the studied factors that influence relationship Anxiety plays an important role in the paradigm of the
satisfaction are: the importance of communication skills fear of abandonment. Among the first emotions experienced
(Eğeci & Gençöz, 2006), self-trust and trust in the partner by a child is anxiety. Separation anxiety has been studied in
(Erol & Orth, 2014). Thus, unresolved individual the field of developmental psychology, representing the
psychological or personality issues have negative effects on child's first fear of abandonment. In clinical cases of
the couple's relationship. Hunsley et al. (1995) argue that generalized anxiety disorder, one of the primary factors is
marital success is based on the extent to which both the fear of abandonment (Hare & Levis, 1981).
partners in the relationship are satisfied with the fulfillment The sense of belonging has significant implications for
of expectations and needs mutually. Additionally, the level emotional paradigms and cognitive processes. The need-to-
of acceptance of a partner's inability to meet all of the other's belong hypothesis suggests that humans have a need to
expectations is an important factor in determining the quality form and maintain a minimum number of relevant and
of a relationship. positive relationships. Failure to fulfill the need for belonging
It is expected that high satisfaction in a couple constitutes a severe deprivation (Baumeister & Leary,
indicates a stable, long-term relationship. A satisfying 1995). From an evolutionary perspective, humans have
relationship is an indicator of a healthy environment in which always been social beings. Thus, the desire for
future children can develop harmoniously. On the other belongingness has represented an adaptive factor. Social
hand, low satisfaction in a relationship indicates instability exclusion has practical and affective implications, but the
and a short -lived relationship. response to it varies among individuals. People often adopt
behaviors aimed at being accepted, and if these attempts
The abandonment schema fail, the individual may engage in a variety of maladaptive
The fear of abandonment is described as a tension behaviors (DeWall & Richman, 2011).
between attachment and separation. It does not significantly In the context of divorce, the fear of abandonment is
differ between genders and age groups (Wolchik et al., stimulated both in children and adults during the adjustment
2002). Close related to the fear of loneliness, Salerno (2003) period. Wolchik et al. (2002) investigated the fear of
says it is a normal fear in a capitalist society that emphasizes abandonment as a mediator between parental divorce
individual work. However, the fear of abandonment stressors and internalization of problems. Both the mother
represents a facet of maladaptive cognitive schemas, and the child had high scores in internalization, detrimental
causing inner tension and dependence on others. to the parent-child relationship. One of the child's internal
13
representations consisted of the negative consequences of mother are more likely to exhibit responses such as lack of
parental conflict on their family life and parental affection communication and social isolation rather than aggressive
dynamics, leading to the fear of no longer being loved behaviors.
(O'Hara et al., 2021). The trauma of separation for a child Responses to social exclusion do not depend so much
can have equally powerful effects as the death of a parent on the context in which it occurs but rather on the painful
when a attachment figure is removed. A study compared the internal tension. Therefore, in the literature, it is highlighted
incidence and type of suicidal ideation between three that individuals who experience rejection in online
groups: those with a deceased parent, those with separated environments have similar responses to those who
parents, and the control group. Results indicated a suicide experience direct rejection (Zadro et al., 2004). Additionally,
attempt rate of 16% for both experimental groups and 4% Eisenberger et al. (2003) demonstrate that accidental
for the control group (Adam, 1973). Regarding adults exclusion activates the same neural regions in the victim as
experiencing divorce, Spanier and Casto (1979) found that intentional exclusion. Gonsalkorale & Williams (2007) assert
most individuals relied on social support from family and that a person's needs are invalidated to the same extent
friends. In the absence of this support, people found it more whether they are excluded by a member outside the social
difficult to adjust their lifestyle and emotional life. group or by a valued member of the social group.
The betrayal trauma theory suggests that an Therefore, abandonment can lead to multiple threats to
emotionally dependent person who is harmed by an abuser the individual.
will experience a sense of betrayal. Abandonment falls
under the umbrella of emotional abuse, accessing the Relationships between attachment styles and
dimension of this theory. The loved one betrays through the couples satisfaction
lack of love and, furthermore, the harm caused. Emotional Through the working model described by Bowlby
involvement increases the importance of the relationship (1969), which individuals internalize in childhood in their
and its effects. Thus, the feeling of betrayal, conditioned relationships with parents, attachment styles are formed with
over time, is expected to be part of subsequent mechanisms subsequent implications in their couple's life. Hazan and
or adjacent symptoms of the individual (Freyd et al., 2007). Shaver (1987) conceptualized the romantic dimension as a
According to the betrayal trauma theory, victims, process through the attachment. The attachment theory
perpetrators, and witnesses may not assume their role in the explains how healthy and unhealthy forms of romantic
unfolding trauma to maintain their social or institutional relationships have their origins in early social experiences.
relationships (Freyd et al., 2007). This explains why there Relationship satisfaction is associated with secure
are individuals with the abandonment schema activated who attachment and negatively correlated with avoidant (Hazan
are not consciously aware of the harmful relationship in & Shaver, 1987; Hammond & Fletcher, 1991). Leak &
question. Cooney (2001) identified a positive association between
The stages of coping theory suggest that an individual high levels of authenticity and self-determination in
may go through the following stages after social exclusion: relationships with a secure attachment style, and a negative
reflexive, reflective, and resignation (Williams, 2009). The correlation with anxious, dependent, and avoidant
reflexive stage involves immediate pain after rejection. The attachment styles. Simpson (1990) demonstrated in a
reflective stage occurs after the individual has had time to longitudinal study that individuals with a secure attachment
think about the rejection and engages in a response. style exhibited higher levels of relational independence,
Williams (2009) argues that the type of response depends commitment, and satisfaction compared to those with
on the individual's threatened need for control, self-esteem, anxious or avoidant attachment styles.
belongingness, or meaning of existence. According to the Thus, it is theorized that individuals who have
stages of coping theory, the individual must react prosocially developed a secure attachment style in their family
to satisfy the needs for self-esteem and belongingness and relationships become adults with a greater capacity for
aggressively or antisocially to satisfy the needs for control managing relationships. A healthy intrapersonal profile
and sense of existence. The resignation stage consists by favors the dynamics of a healthy romantic relationship, as
the individual concluding that their value is not appreciated the person is able to realistically self-evaluate expectations
after unsuccessful attempts in the reflective stage. The and communicate authentically, leading to satisfaction in the
individual integrates this experience with other negative involved couple.
experiences from the past, leading to learned helplessness, Taking into account the aforementioned, our primary
low self-worth, and neurotic symptoms. People tend to lose objective is to analyze the relationship between attachment
motivation for engaging in prosocial behaviors, while styles and satisfaction in couple relationships, formulating
motivation for aggressive behaviors may increase (DeWall the following hypotheses:
& Richman, 2011). Claesson & Sohlberg (2002) state that H1: Attachment styles are significant predictors of
individuals with emotionally unsatisfied needs by their couple satisfaction.
14
 H1a: Secure attachment is a significant positive emotional distance, relying on one's own resources
predictor of couple satisfaction. (Dandurand & Lafontaine, 2013). Fear of abandonment,
H1b: Avoidant attachment is a significant negative along with other tense emotions, can develop in response to
predictor of couple satisfaction. emotional unavailability from one of the parental figures.
H1c: Anxious attachment is a significant negative Chambless and Goldstein (1980) highlighted in the
predictor of couple satisfaction. literature that adverse experiences in the past involving
H1d: Dependent attachment is a significant negative physical or psychological loss of a significant person have
predictor of couple satisfaction. led to excessive dependence on others as an attempt to
avoid abandonment and preserve feelings of self-worth,
Relationships between abandonment schemas, security, and identity. The central fear can branch out into
attachment styles, and satisfaction in couple other fears such as fear of criticism, rejection, and failure. As
relationships a result of developing these fears, individuals lose self-
Fear of abandonment and attachment styles are efficacy, constructing their responses based on the approval
factors within the dynamic model formed in the first of others and the possibility of failure. This externally
significant affective relationship with attachment figures. The oriented self-modeling is exhausting and causes more
model takes shape in the early years of life and can undergo anxiety (Heide & Borkovec, 1984).
modifications over time. While entering a romantic Bowlby's attachment theory (1973, 1982) supports the
relationship, individuals tend to project the learned model notion that parents' responsiveness to children's attachment
onto their partner. The layered theory of attachment is signals and their availability in stressful situations provide
supported by numerous studies in the literature, such as the children with a secure base upon which they organize their
15 studies in the meta-analysis conducted by Karantzas et expectations about the world and help them cope with
al. (2022). The research found a positive correlation distress. Children with available parents react to separation
between maladaptive cognitive schemas and insecure with less fear, hostility, and avoidance than those with
attachment styles, and a negative correlation with secure unavailable parents (Ainsworth et al., 1978).
attachment style. Maladaptive cognitive schemas correlated Claesson and Sohlberg (2002) highlighted the
more significantly with anxious styles, followed by avoidant implications of developing a strong sense of shame due to
and fearful styles. abandonment and unmet emotional needs by the mother
Insecure attachments develop starting in childhood, figure. A person who experiences a high level of shame
when individuals are exposed to emotionally unavailable tends to perceive significant others in their life with rejection
figures. Feeney and Noller (1990) conducted a study and neglect. Through early experiences of abandonment,
investigating attachment types and their potential this becomes a pattern. People expect the love and affection
implications. Based on the study results, individuals with a model offered by parents in childhood to be repeated in a
secure attachment reported relatively positive perceptions of similar manner in adult life.
early family relationships. Individuals with an avoidant Bowlby's attachment theory (1973, 1982) suggests
attachment were more likely to experience separation from that fear of abandonment by one of the parental figures
their mother and distrust in others. Avoidant individuals were leads to a high level of anxiety. As a form of threat used in
the least likely to perceive their father as a supportive figure child discipline, 27% of 700 parents in a study reported
they could rely on. Individuals with an anxious-ambivalent conditioning the child's undesirable behavior with
attachment exhibited a lack of independence and a desire abandonment or other forms of leaving (Bowlby, 1973). The
for deep commitment in relationships. Certain key elements child receives the message that they are replaceable,
are more likely to influence the development of maladaptive unimportant, and dispensable. These feelings, reinforced,
cognitive schemas. Unsatisfied needs in childhood lead to a accompany them into adulthood. Through Bowlby's working
variety of maladaptive cognitive schemas defined in model described as internalized by individuals in childhood
cognitive schema therapy, including fear of abandonment, relationships with parents, attachment styles are formed with
negative self-perception, and personal manifestations in subsequent implications in couple relationships.
response to suffering (Simard et al., 2011). As a coping Taking into account the above, the second objective of
mechanism for the lack of responsiveness from the parental this study aims to investigate how couple life is affected and
figure, the child may respond with either hyperactivation or influenced by an established attachment style, mediating the
deactivation of attachment needs (Cassidy & Berlin, 1994). relationship through fear of abandonment. Therefore, we
The central goal of hyperactivation is to obtain the formulate the following hypothesis H2: Abandonment
support and protection that is lacking from the parental schema mediates the relationship between attachment
figure. In contrast, deactivation aims at detachment and styles and couple satisfaction.

15
 2. METHODOLOGY
The abandonment schema was measured using the
Participants and procedure abandonment dimension questions from The Cognitive
A total of 120 individuals participated in this study,
ranging in age from 19 to 55 years old, M = 25.67, SD = 8.95,
including 23 males (19%) and 97 females (81%). Regarding Style Questionnaire YSQ-S3 (Young, 2003). The instrument
marital status, 105 participants were in a relationship (87%), consists of 113 items, however 5 items from the
and 15 were married (13%). As for the duration of the abandonment subscale were used. Responses are given on
relationship, 29 participants reported a duration between six a 6-point Likert scale, where 1 = totally untrue and 5 - it
months and one year (24%), 35 reported a duration between describes me perfectly. Scores are obtained by summing up
one and three years (29%), 24 reported a duration between the scores for each item. A study examined the validity of
three and five years (20%), and 32 reported a duration over the questionnaire translated into Romanian, resulting in a
five years (27%). very good Cronbach's α coefficient ranging from .68 to .96
The inclusion criterion for participating in the study was (Trip, 2006).
that participants be Romanian citizens, at least 18 years old, Couple satisfaction was measured using The Couples
and in a relationship for a minimum of six months. Satisfaction Index (Funk & Rogge, 2007). The questionnaire
Convenience sampling was used as the sampling method. version with 16 items was used. The items are scored on a
Out of a total of 150 individuals invited to participate in the Likert scale from 1 - extremely unhappy to 7 - perfect. The
study, only 120 agreed to participate and completed the next 9 items measure responses on a six-point Likert scale,
questionnaire (80%). The distribution and completion of the from 0 - always disagree to 5 - always agree. The following
questionnaire took place online, on social media platforms. 6 items measure responses on a six-point Likert scale, from
After a brief introduction to the study, participants were 0 - not at all to 5 - extremely. Scores are obtained by
invited to access and complete an online platform containing summing up the scores for each item.
the questionnaire. Participants were not rewarded in any Attachment styles were measured using the Attachment
way for taking part in the study. Style Questionnaire Short Form (Feeney et al., 1994). The
The research ethics conditions regarding data instrument consists of 15 items that measure various
processing and interpretation, as well as data security subscales, including secure, avoidant, anxious, and
monitoring, were met. The data were initially organized in dependent attachment. Responses are provided on a five-
encrypted Excel tables accessible only to the author of this point Likert scale, where 1 - disagree and 5 - agree. Scores
study. Participants' names or any other data that could link are obtained by calculating the arithmetic mean of each
their identity to the provided data were not requested. dimension..

Instruments Study design and data analysis

Socio-demographic variables were assessed through a The present study has a cross-sectional, descriptive,
list of questions with multiple-choice or open-ended options, and correlational design. The statistical analysis program
which investigated age, gender, marital status, and length of IBM.SPSS.24 (IBM Corp, 2016) and the Jamovi medmod
the relationship. module (The jamovi project, 2022) were used to organize
the data and test the hypotheses.

3. RESULTS

Descriptive statistics correlations are observed between avoidant attachment and

It is observed (see Table 1) that the scores obtained by secure attachment, r = -.28, p < .01. Abandonment
participants for abandonment are low, M = 13.10, SD = 6.03. correlates significantly positively with anxious attachment, r
Regarding attachment styles, the scores are as follows: for = .63, p < .01, and with dependent attachment, r = .39, p <
secure attachment, M = 3.67, SD = 0.70; for avoidant .01. Couple satisfaction correlates significantly positively
attachment, M = 1.60, SD = 0.57; for anxious attachment, M with secure attachment, r = .27, p < .01, but it has significant
= 2.38, SD = 1.02; and for dependent attachment, M = 2.89, negative correlations with abandonment, r = -.25, p < .01,
SD = 0.82. Couple satisfaction has relatively high scores, M and avoidant attachment, r = -.24, p < .01.
= 66.10, SD = 12.64. Furthermore, significant negative Skewness and kurtosis are within the range of (-1, 1),
indicating a normal distribution of the data. There were no
missing cases, and no cases were excluded from any of the
statistical analyses.
16
Table 1. Descriptive statistics
M AS α Ab ATSE ATEV ATAX ATDE SC
Ab 13,10 6,03 .83 1
ATSE 3,67 ,70 .71 -,02 1
ATEV 1,60 ,57 .42 ,11 -,28** 1
ATAX 2,38 1,02 .87 ,63** -,19* ,19* 1
ATDE 2,89 ,82 .49 ,39** ,16 ,02 ,42** 1
SC 66,10 12,64 .93 -,25** ,27** -,24** -,14 -,08 1
**. p < .01, *. p < .05.
Ab – Abandonment schema, ATSE – Secure attachment, ATEV – Avoidant attachment, ATAX – Anxious attachment, ATDE – Dependent attachment, SC –
Couple satisfaction

Hypotheses testing

H1: Attachment styles are significant predictors of H1d: Dependent attachment is a significant negative
couple satisfaction. predictor of couple satisfaction..
H1a: Secure attachment is a significant positive
predictor of couple satisfaction. To test this hypothesis, a multiple regression analysis
H1b: Avoidant attachment is a significant negative was performed with the four attachment styles as predictors
predictor of couple satisfaction. and couple satisfaction as the dependent variable.
H1c: Anxious attachment is a significant negative
predictor of couple satisfaction.

Table 2. Multiple regression analysis for attachment styles as predictors of couple satisfaction
B ES β
ATSE 4,27 1,74 ,24 2,46 ,02
ATVE -3,62 2,04 -,16 -1,78 ,08
ATAX -,15 1,26 -,01 -,12 ,91
ATDE -1,73 1,54 -,11 -1,12 ,26
R2 = .11

It can be observed that the four attachment styles H2: Abandonment schema mediates the relationship
account for 11% of the variance in couple satisfaction, and between attachment styles and couple satisfaction.
the regression equation is statistically significant, F(4, 115) To test this hypothesis, four mediation analyses were
= 3.63, p < .01. Among the four predictors, only secure conducted, with the four attachment styles as predictors,
attachment is significantly positively associated with couple couple satisfaction as the dependent variable, and the
satisfaction, β = .24, t(120) = 2.46, p < .05. abandonment schema as the mediating variable.
Considering this result, we can say that hypothesis H1
is only partially supported by the analyzed data.

17
Table 3. Mediation analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between secure attachment and couple satisfaction

95% CI

Effect Label Estimation ES Min. Max. Z p % Mediation

Indirect a×b .12 .40 -.66 .89 .30 .77 3.65

Direct c 3.12 1.51 .16 6.08 2.07 .04 96.35

Total c+a×b 3.24 1.56 .18 6.29 2.08 .04 100.00

The abandonment schema does not mediate the

relationship between secure attachment and couple
satisfaction, b = .12, CI95%(-.66, .89), Z = .30, p = .77.

Table 4. Mediation analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between avoidant attachment and couple satisfaction

95% CI

Effect Label Estimation ES Min. Max. Z p %Mediation

Indirect a×b -.61 .44 -1.48 .26 -1.37 .17 12.17

Direct c -4.41 1.64 -7.62 -1.20 -2.69 .01 87.83

Total c+a×b -5.02 1.66 -8.28 -1.76 -3.02 .00 100.00

The abandonment schema does not mediate the Based on these results, we can say that H2 is not supported
relationship between secure attachment and couple by the analyzed data.
satisfaction, b = -.61, CI95%(-1.48, .26), Z = -1.37, p = .17.

Table 5. Mediation analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between anxious attachment and couple satisfaction
95% CI

Effect Label Estimation ES Min. Max. Z p % Mediation

Indirect a×b -1.94 .85 -3.61 -.28 -2.29 .02 90.04

Direct c .22 1.35 -2.44 2.87 .16 .87 9.96

Total c+a×b -1.73 1.11 -3.90 .44 -1.56 .12 100.00

The abandonment schema mediates the relationship

between anxious attachment and couple satisfaction, b = -
1.94, CI95%(-3.61, -.28), Z = -2.29, p < .05.

18
Table 6. Path analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between anxious attachment and couple satisfaction
95% CI

Label Estimation ES Min. Max. Z p

Anxious attachment → Abandonment a 3.52 .43 2.69 4.36 8.26 .00

Abandonment → Couple satisfaction b -.55 .23 -1.01 -.10 -2.38 .02
Anxious attachment → Couple satisfaction c .22 1.35 -2.44 2.87 .16 .87

Anxious attachment is positively associated with the CI95%(-1.01, -.10), z =.38, p < .05. There is no significant
abandonment schema, b = 3.52, CI95%(2.69, 4.36), z = direct relationship between anxious attachment and couple
8.26, p < .01. Additionally, the abandonment schema is satisfaction, which shows a total mediation.
negatively associated with couple satisfaction, b = -.55,

Table 7. Mediation analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between dependent attachment and couple satisfaction

95% CI

Effect Label Estimation SE Min. Max. Z p % Mediation

Indirect a×b -1.43 .59 -2.59 -.27 -2.41 .02 61.95

Direct c .88 1.34 -1.75 3.50 .66 .51 38.05

Total c+a×b -.55 1.29 -3.08 1.98 -.43 .67 100.00

The abandonment schema mediates the relationship

between dependent attachment and couple satisfaction, b =
-1.43, CI95%(-2.59, -.27), Z = -2.41, p < .05.

Table 8. Path analysis for abandonment schema in the relationship between dependent attachment and couple satisfaction
95% CI

Label Estimation ES Min. Max. Z p

Dependent attachment → Abandonment a 2.48 .57 1.35 3.60 4.32 < .00
Abandonment → Couple satisfaction b -.58 .20 -.97 -.19 -2.91 .00
Dependent attachment → Couple satisfaction c .88 1.34 -1.75 3.50 .66 .51

Dependent attachment is positively associated with the Taking into account these results, we can say that H2
abandonment schema, b = 2.48, CI95%(1.35, 3.60), z = is partially supported by the analyzed data, in the sense that
4.32, p < .01. Additionally, the abandonment schema is the abandonment schema only mediates the relationships
negatively associated with couple satisfaction, b = -.58, between anxious attachment and relationship satisfaction,
CI95%(-.97, -.19), z = -2.91, p < .01. However, in terms of as well as between dependent attachment and relationship
the relationship between dependent attachment and couple satisfaction.
satisfaction, there is no significant association, b = .88,
CI95%(-1.75, 3.50), z = .66, p > .05.

19
 4. DISCUSSION

In the present study, two objectives were proposed. The satisfaction, as well as between dependent attachment and
first objective was to analyze the relationship between relationship satisfaction. Thus, a significant mediation of the
attachment styles and relationship satisfaction. The second abandonment schema is observed, demonstrating its
objective was to explore the mediating role of the significant implication in the two captured relationships
abandonment schema in the relationship between between anxious and dependent attachment styles with
attachment styles and relationship satisfaction. In the relationship satisfaction. The results are consistent with
descriptive statistical analysis of the data, it is observed that other research in the literature that associates childhood
the largest number of participants falls into the secure adversity, including feelings of abandonment, with insecure
attachment style, followed by the dependent style, the attachment styles (Mickelson et al., 1997), and the latter are
anxious style, with the avoidant style being the least closely related to a lack of relationship satisfaction (Feenely,
represented. Regarding abandonment, relatively low scores 1994). Chambless and Goldstein (1980) explain the
were observed. At the level of relationship satisfaction, sequence of psychological loss of a significant person
relatively high scores were recorded. Thus, from the followed by the development of general insecurity, which
descriptive analysis of the data, it can be interpreted that the leads to anxious or dependent attachment. The results
majority of participants do not face the analyzed problems, associated with the second hypothesis demonstrate it is
and there is a link between factors associated with a healthy partially true and is supported by previous research.
psychological lifestyle. Therefore, it can be affirmed that the
sample largely corresponds to the population, with most Theoretical and practical implications
participants falling into the secure attachment category The present study contributes to the scientific literature
(Mickelson et al., 1997). focused on attachment styles, specifically in relation to
Based on the first objective of the study, which focused couple life. The study aims for increasing awareness for the
on the relationship between attachment styles and consequences of an unhealthy environment, drawing
relationship satisfaction, the hypothesis was formulated and attention to behaviors that do not favour an harmonious
tested in the inferential statistics of the data. The hypothesis, development for children and the possible consequences in
along with the secondary hypotheses that assumed the adulthood, particularly in couple relationships.
predictive nature of attachment for relationship satisfaction, Considering that the abandonment schema mediates
were partially supported. Among the tested predictors, only the relationships between anxious attachment and
secure attachment style was found to be significantly relationship satisfaction, as well as between dependent
positively associated with relationship satisfaction. One attachment and relationship satisfaction, it is recommended
possible reason for finding this effect could be that most to implement measures to reduce the chances of developing
participants fell into the category of high scores on these two these attachment styles and abandonment, along with the
factors, while the other hypotheses were not supported due negative emotions associated with it.
to the small number of participants. Leak & Cooney (2001) For attachment styles, it is proposed to implement free
observed an association between relational management projects to inform and educate future parents about the
qualities and secure attachment. Hazan and Shaver (1987) numerous effects of parental behavior on child development.
showed that individuals with a secure attachment style are Regarding child abandonment, it is encouraged to
involved in happier relationships than those with an insecure maintain and improve existing programs, such as the
attachment style. Additionally, Simpson (1990) described adoption process. Additionally, counseling sessions should
the correlation between secure attachment and be provided for the mental well-being of children in foster
interpersonal skills that promote higher levels of satisfaction care and improvements should be made in the conditions of
in romantic relationships. Therefore, based on the results these centers. In terms of the negative emotions generated
obtained from the statistical analysis, we can conclude that by family abandonment, free psychological counseling
the first hypothesis is partially supported and in line with sessions should be offered to children whose parents are
other research on the topic of interest. going through a divorce, are working abroad, or are part of
Regarding the second objective of the present study, a single-parent family due to various reasons.
the role of the abandonment schema in mediating the The practical implications of the study relate to
relationship between attachment styles and relationship mobilizing programs of information, counseling, and
satisfaction was analyzed. In terms of the second objective, improvement for vulnerable situations involving children,
the second hypothesis, which assumed the mediation of the with a focus on prevention.
mentioned relationship, was partially supported, as the
abandonment schema was found to mediate the
relationships between anxious attachment and relationship
20
 Limitations and future research directions satisfaction, with the mediating role of the abandonment
One of the limitations of this study is the small number schema. The focus on this topic is justified by the significant
of participants, predominantly students. In future research, role of the parent in a child's life and the major influence they
a larger and more diverse sample in terms of age and have, highlighting the subsequent effects on adult
backgrounds will be considered. development. The fear of abandonment is investigated as a
Another relevant limitation in capturing the effect could mediator in the relationship between attachment style
be the inclusion criterion of being in a relationship for a formed over the years and how it affects overall satisfaction
minimum of 6 months. It should be considered that in the romantic sphere of life. The study examines the link
abandonment and insecure attachment styles may lead to a between factors in individual life and factors in couple life.
profile with a high level of social incapacity, characterized by Thus, a research with multiple hypotheses analyzed
an inability to find or maintain a romantic relationship. statistically was conducted. We consider that the results of
Therefore, the effect may not be captured in individuals who the study are partially supported. The first objective was
fail to engage in a relationship. It is proposed that future partially demonstrated, as only the relationship between
studies include participants who are not in a relationship in secure attachment style and relationship satisfaction was
order to make comparisons. supported among the proposed hypotheses. As for the
A third limitation that may influence the validity of the second objective, the mediating role of the abandonment
results is the measurement method of the variables. schema between anxious and dependent attachment styles
Participants self-evaluated the measured components. It is and relationship satisfaction was concluded. Given the
possible that participants provide responses that do not critical importance of attachment and the fear of
correspond to reality, leading to erroneous data. Motivation abandonment, it is crucial to identify, understand, and
could be represented by creating a profile they want others address these schemas in order to promote healthy
to perceive or an inability for realistic self-evaluation. emotional development and well-being. Further research is
proposed on how cognitive schemas affect key factors in the
Conclusions dimension of couples.
In conclusion, this research aimed to analyze the
relationship between attachment styles and relationship

5. REFERENCES
Adam, K. S. (1973). Childhood, parental loss, suicidal Cassidy, J., & Berlin, L. J. (1994). The Insecure/Ambivalent
ideation and suicidal behavior. The child in his family: The Pattern of Attachment: Theory and Research. Child
impact of disease and death (pp. 267–297). Wiley. Development, 65(4), 971. https://doi.org/10.2307/1131298
Ainsworth, M. D. S., Blehar, M. C., & Waters, E. (1978). wall, Claesson, K., & Sohlberg, S. (2002). Internalized shame and
S.(1978). Patterns of Attachment: A Psychological Study of early interactions characterized by indifference,
the Strange Situation. Lawlence Erlbaum Associates. abandonment and rejection: replicated findings. Clinical
Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to Psychology & Psychotherapy, 9(4), 277–284.
belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a doi:10.1002/cpp.331
fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, Collard, D. (2006). Research on well-being: Some advice
117(3), 497–529. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033- from Jeremy Bentham. Philosophy of the Social Sciences,
2909.117.3.497 36(3), 330–354
Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: volume I: Collins, N. L. (1996). Working models of attachment:
attachment. In Attachment and Loss: Volume I: Attachment Implications for explanation, emotion, and Behavior. Journal
(pp. 1-401). The Hogarth Press and the Institute of Psycho of Personality and Social Psychology, 71(4), 810 832.
Analysis. https://doi.org/10.1037/0022-3514.71.4.810
Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and Loss. Basic Books. Chernus, L. A. (2008). “Separation/Abandonment/Isolation
Bowlby, J. (1973). Attachment and loss: Volume II: Trauma:” An Application of Psychoanalytic Developmental
Separation, anxiety and anger. In Attachment and loss: Theory to Understanding its Impact on Both Chimpanzee
Volume II: Separation, anxiety and anger (pp. 1-429). The and Human Children. Journal of Emotional Abuse, 8(4),
Hogarth press and the institute of psycho-analysis. 447–468. doi:10.1080/10926790802480356
Bowlby, J. (1980). Attachment and loss: Vol. 3 Loss. Basic Dandurand, C., & Lafontaine, M. F. (2013). Intimacy and
Books. Couple Satisfaction: The Moderating Role of Romantic
Bowlby, J. (1982). Attachment and loss: Retrospect and Attachment. International Journal of Psychological Studies,
prospect. American journal of Orthopsychiatry, 52(4), 664. 5(1). https://doi.org/10.5539/ijps.v5n1p74
doi:10.1111/j.1939-0025.1982.tb01456.x
21
DeWall, C. N., & Richman, S. B. (2011). Social Exclusion Gonsalkorale, K., & Williams, K. D. (2007). The KKK won’t
and the Desire to Reconnect. Social and Personality let me play: Ostracism even by a despised outgroup hurts.
Psychology Compass, 5(11), 919–932. doi:10.1111/j.1751- European Journal of Social Psychology, 37, 1176–1186
9004.2011.00383.x Hunsley, J., Pinsent, C., Lefebvre, M., James-Tanner, S., &
Dyrdal, G. M., Røysamb, E., Nes, R. B., & Vittersø, J. (2010). Vito, D. (1995). Construct validity of the short forms of the
Can a Happy Relationship Predict a Happy Life? A dyadic Adjustment Scale. Family Relations, 231-237.
Population-Based Study of Maternal Well-Being During the doi:10.2307/585520
Life Transition of Pregnancy, Infancy, and Toddlerhood. Hammond, J. R., & Fletcher, G. J. (1991). Attachment styles
Journal of Happiness Studies, 12(6), 947–962. and relationship satisfaction in the development of close
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-010-9238-2 relationships. New Zealand Journal of Psychology, 20, 56-
Eisenberger, N. I., Lieberman, M. D., & Williams, K. D. 56.
(2003). Does Rejection Hurt? An fMRI Study of Social Hare, N. & Levis, D. J. (1981). Pervasive (“free-floating”)
Exclusion. Science, 302(5643), 290–292. anxiety: a search for a cause and treatment approach.
https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1089134 Handbook of Clinical Behavior Therapy.
Eğeci, S., & Gençöz, T. (2006). Factors Associated with Hazan, C, & Shaver, P. (1987). Romantic love
Relationship Satisfaction: Importance of Communication conceptualized as an attachment process. Journal of
Skills. Contemporary Family Therapy, 28(3), 383–391. Personality and Social Psychology, 52, 511-524.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-006-9010-2 Heide, F. J., & Borkovec, T. D. (1984). Relaxation-induced
Erol, R. Y., & Orth, U. (2014). Development of self-esteem anxiety: Mechanisms and theoretical implications.
and relationship satisfaction in couples: Two longitudinal Behaviour Research and Therapy, 22(1), 1–12.
studies. Developmental Psychology, 50(9), 2291–2303. doi:10.1016/0005-7967(84)90027-5
https://doi.org/10.1037/a0037370 Karantzas, G. C., Younan, R., & Pilkington, P. D. (2022).
Feenely, J. A. (1994). Attachment style, communication The associations between early maladaptive schemas and
patterns, and satisfaction across the life cycle of marriage. adult attachment styles: A meta-analysis. Clinical
Personal Relationships, 1(4), 333–348. doi:10.1111/j.1475- Psychology-Science and Practice.
6811.1994.tb00069.x https://doi.org/10.1037/cps0000108
Feeney, J. A., & Noller, P. (1990). Attachment style as a Kessler, R. C., Pecora, P. J., Williams, J., Hiripi, E., O’Brien,
predictor of adult romantic relationships. Journal of K., English, D., White, J., Zerbe, R., Downs, A. C., Plotnick,
Personality and Social Psychology, 58(2), 281–291. R., Hwang, I., & Sampson, N. A. (2008). Effects of Enhanced
doi:10.1037/0022-3514.58.2.281 Foster Care on the Long-term Physical and Mental Health of
Feeney, J. A., Noller, P., & Hanrahan, M. (1994). Assessing Foster Care Alumni. Archives of General Psychiatry, 65(6),
adult attachment. In M. B. Sperling & W. H. Berman (Eds.), 625. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpsyc.65.6.625
Attachment in adults: Clinical and developmental Kira, I. A., Fawzi, M. H., & Fawzi, M. M. (2013). The
perspectives (pp. 128– 152). Guilford Press. dynamics of cumulative trauma and trauma types in adults
Feeney, J. A., Noller, P., & Hanrahan, M. U. (2014b). patients with psychiatric disorders: Two cross-cultural
Attachment Style Questionnaire. PsycTESTS Dataset. studies. Traumatology, 19(3), 179–195.
https://doi.org/10.1037/t29439-000 doi:10.1177/1534765612459892
Fraley, R. C., & Roisman, G. I. (2019). The development of Leak, G. K., & Cooney, R. R. (2001). Self-determination,
adult attachment styles: four lessons. Current Opinion in attachment styles, and well-being in adult romantic
Psychology, 25, 26–30. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2018.02.008 relationships. Representative Research in Social
Fraley, R. C., Shaver, P. R. (2000). Adult romantic Psychology, 25, 55–62.
attachment: theoretical developments, emerging https://dspace2.creighton.edu/xmlui/handle/10504/72013
controversies, and unanswered questions, Review of Levy, M. B., & Davis, K. E. (1988). Lovestyles and
General Psychology, 4, 132-154. attachment styles compared: Their relations to each other
Freyd, J. J., Deprince, A. P., & Gleaves, D. H. (2007). The and to various relationship characteristics. Journal of social
state of betrayal trauma theory: Reply to McNally— and Personal Relationships, 5(4), 439-471.
Conceptual issues, and future directions. Memory, 15(3), doi:10.1177/0265407588054004
295–311. https://doi.org/10.1080/09658210701256514 Main, M., Kaplan, N., & Cassidy, J. (1985). Security in
Funk, J. L., & Rogge, R. D. (2007). Testing the ruler with infancy, childhood, and adulthood: A move to the level of
item response theory: Increasing precision of measurement representation. Monographs of the Societyfor Research in
for relationship satisfaction with the Couples Satisfaction Child Development, 50, 66-1
Index. Journal of Family Psychology, 21(4), 572–583. Mickelson, K. D., Kessler, R. C., & Shaver, P. R. (1997).
https://doi.org/10.1037/0893-3200.21.4.572 Adult attachment in a nationally representative sample.

22
Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 73(5), 1092– Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale and the Satisfaction with
1106. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.73.5.1092 Married Life Scale. Marriage & Family Review, 45(4), 412–
O’Hara, K. L., Rhodes, C. A., Wolchik, S. A., Sandler, I. N., 429. doi:10.1080/01494920902828219
& Yun‐Tein, J. (2021). Longitudinal Effects of PostDivorce Whetten, K., Ostermann, J., Whetten, R. A., Pence, B. W.,
Interparental Conflict on Children’s Mental Health Problems O’Donnell, K., … Messer, L. C. (2009). A Comparison of the
Through Fear of Abandonment: Does Parenting Quality Play Wellbeing of Orphans and Abandoned Children Ages 6–12
a Buffering Role? Child Development, 92(4), 1476–1493. in Institutional and Community-Based Care Settings in 5
https://doi.org/10.1111/cdev.13539 Less Wealthy Nations. PLoS ONE, 4(12), e8169.
Salerno, R. A. (2003). Landscapes of Abandonment: doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0008169
Capitalism, Modernity, and Estrangement (Suny Series in WISQARS (Web-based Injury Statistics Query and
the Sociology of Culture). State University of New York Reporting System)|Injury Center|CDC. (n.d.).
Press. https://www.cdc.gov/injury/wisqars/index.html
Simard, V., Moss, E., & Pascuzzo, K. (2011). Early Wolchik, S. A., Tein, J. Y., Sandler, I. N., & Doyle, K. W.
maladaptive schemas and child and adult attachment: A 15- (2002). Fear of Abandonment as a Mediator of the Relations
year longitudinal study. Psychology and Psychotherapy: Between Divorce Stressors and Mother–Child Relationship
Theory, Research and Practice, 84(4), 349–366. Quality and Children’s Adjustment Problems. Journal of
doi:10.1111/j.2044-8341.2010.02009.x Abnormal Child Psychology, 30(4), 401–418.
Simpson, J. A. (1990). Influence of attachment styles on https://doi.org/10.1023/a:1015722109114
romantic relationships. Journal of personality and social Woodcock, A., Hernandez, P. R., Estrada, M., & Schultz, P.
psychology, 59(5), 971. doi:10.1037/0022-3514.59.5.971 W. (2012). The consequences of chronic stereotype threat:
Spanier, G. B., & Casto, R. F. (1979). Adjustment to Domain disidentification and abandonment. Journal of
separation and divorce: A qualitative analysis. Divorce and Personality and Social Psychology, 103(4), 635–646.
separation: Context, causes, and consequences (pp. 211- doi:10.1037/a0029120
217). Basic Books. Young, E.J., Klosko, S.J., & Weishaar, E.M. (2003). Schema
Suicide. (2021, June 17). https://www.who.int/news- Therapy. A Practitioner’s Guide. The Guiford Press.
room/fact-sheets/detail/suicide Zadro, L., Williams, K. D., & Richardson, R. (2004). How
Trip, S. (2006). The Romanian Version of Young Schema long can you go? Ostracism by a computer is sufficient to
Questionnaire - Short Form 3 (Ysq-S3). Journal of Evidence- lower self-reported levels of belonging, control, self-esteem,
Based Psychotherapies, 6(2), 173. and meaningful existence. Journal of Experimental Social
https://www.questia.com/library/journal/1P3-1238607171 Psychology, 40, 560–567.
/the-romanian-version-of-young-schema-questionnaire
Ward, P. J., Lundberg, N. R., Zabriskie, R. B., & Berrett, K.
(2009). Measuring Marital Satisfaction: A Comparison of the

23