Attachment in adulthood

de Mario Mikulincer, Phillip R. Shaver

"The volume reviews the foundations of attachment theory and traces how the study of adolescents and adults has enriched Bowlby and Ainsworth's original ideas. Measures of attachment style and related constructs (several of which are reprinted in the appendices) are described in depth, and their contributions to understanding both normative processes and individual differences are explored. The authors analyze findings from thousands of studies to show how attachment has been used to further scientific knowledge about nearly all aspects of social functioning. Revealed are compelling insights into the processes underlying mental representations of self and others, personal goals and strivings, healthy and unhealthy coping strategies, couple dynamics, sexuality, caregiving, psychopathology, psychotherapy, and organizational behavior. The concluding chapter reflects on the key issues addressed, considers the deeper philosophical implications of current work in the field, and identifies pivotal directions for future investigation."--Jacket.