Back to the glossary

Attachment

The emotional bond developed with caregivers in childhood that shapes how we relate to others as adults — and a useful lens for understanding patterns in our relationships.

Attachment theory describes the emotional bond we form with early caregivers, which shapes our expectations and patterns in later relationships. Understanding your attachment style can help make sense of relationship dynamics, emotional reactions and ways of coping.

Have a term you’d like defined?

Get in touch and we’ll add it.