Which attachment style is characterized by a lack of involvement in intimate relationships, and an unwillingness to depend on others or be depended on?

Which attachment style is characterized by a lack of involvement in intimate relationships, and an unwillingness to depend on others or be depended on?

• A. Secure
• B. Anxious-avoidant
• C. Anxious-preoccupied
• D. Disorganized

Answer: (B)

Attachment styles describe how people handle closeness and dependence in relationships. The description given—little involvement in intimate relationships and a reluctance to depend on others or be depended on—fits anxious-avoidant (also called dismissive-avoidant) attachment. This pattern arises from early experiences that taught the individual to protect themselves by keeping emotional distance and prioritizing independence. In adulthood, it shows up as keeping partners at arm’s length, avoiding reliance on others, and minimizing the importance of intimate connections. This stands in contrast to secure attachment (comfortable with closeness and autonomy), anxious-preoccupied attachment (excessive neediness and fear of abandonment), and disorganized attachment (inconsistent, unpredictable behaviors).

Attachment styles describe how people handle closeness and dependence in relationships. The description given—little involvement in intimate relationships and a reluctance to depend on others or be depended on—fits anxious-avoidant (also called dismissive-avoidant) attachment. This pattern arises from early experiences that taught the individual to protect themselves by keeping emotional distance and prioritizing independence. In adulthood, it shows up as keeping partners at arm’s length, avoiding reliance on others, and minimizing the importance of intimate connections. This stands in contrast to secure attachment (comfortable with closeness and autonomy), anxious-preoccupied attachment (excessive neediness and fear of abandonment), and disorganized attachment (inconsistent, unpredictable behaviors).