The importance of self-awareness presents itself in everyday scenarios. It is highlighted in the way we react in restricting circumstances, the way we interact with others, and the amount of care we offer ourselves. When we are confident in knowing how we operate as individuals, then we are able to maneuver more effortlessly through avoidable issues. One way in which we can get to know ourselves better is by acknowledging which attachment style we most identify with. The four attachment styles in partnerships are secure, anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant.
A secure attachment style is one that involves a lot of honesty, openness, and stability. People with a secure attachment style are able to meet their partner with efficient communication, understanding, and care, which allows for more freedom and trust. An anxious-preoccupied attachment style is shown in someone who romanticizes love. This person can oftentimes be demanding, obsessive, clingy, and insecure as a result of growing up without healthy boundaries and little to no guidance on nurturing their individuality. The dismissive-avoidant personality exists in people who are emotionally distant. They appear to be self- sufficient and extremely independent, while holding very few close relationships. This is done in order to limit the vulnerability they share with their partner. The fearful avoidant style holds a delicate mixture of fearing being too distant or too close to someone. As a result, this person is unpredictable and they oftentimes hurt those who get too close to them. These people have a fear of being abandoned yet also struggle with being confident in their partner and relying on them.
Identifying your attachment style allows for a self-awareness that increases emotional intelligence. People normally cling to what they know rather than what is good for them. Acknowledging your needs by first recognizing where you stand as an individual is an integral part of practicing healthy habits in life.
Eshana France
English Major,
Expressionist.