Attachment and Spiritual Maturity 62
Major Findings Relationship of Secure Childhood Attachment and Secure Adult Attachment Two findings are of interest. First, maternal bonding was not significantly related to secure adult attachment. Second, paternal bonding was weak but still significant in
relationship to secure adult attachment. These two findings suggest that childhood
attachment overall was weak in relationship to secure adult attachment. Two issues are raised from this finding that contrast with other findings.
Attachment in childhood according to Bowlby (1979) and Ainsworth (1989) is
viewed as an enduring emotional bond that sets a foundation for attachment to be carried
from child to adult relationships. Hazan and Shaver (1987) examined this assumption by
applying childhood attachment theory to some key issues in adult intimate relationships.
Their extensive research resulted in a comprehensive theory claiming that a person' s
attachment relationship with parents in early childhood influences their relationships in
adult life (Hazen & Shaver, 1994).
Therefore, the lack of significance in this study ofperceived maternal bonding or
maternal overprotection on secure adult attachment is in contrast with the Hazan and
Shaver research. This could be explained in a number ofways. One explanation may be
the methodology of self- report which may be biased. The subjects of this study were
seminary students who may report more idealized relationships and faith maturity. Also,
respondents were asked to recall childhood memories and then report on them.
Retrospective data raises questions about how well adult reports of their childhood reflect
their actual experience. In future research, longitudinal research that includes
observational or interview methodologies could help address this concern.
Another explanation as to why a significant relationship was not found between
perceived childhood maternal bonding and secure adult attachment could be that
respondent's current adult experiences were ofgreater influence on the internal working models established in childhood (Kobak, 1994). Kobak suggests that Hazan and Shaver in
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker