Attachment Theory Expanded: Security Dynamics in Individuals, Dyads, Groups, and Societies

by Mario Mikulincer, Phillip R. Shaver

From pioneering attachment researchers, this book takes an expansive look at the nature and functions of security dynamics in personal and social relationships. Mario Mikulincer and Phillip R. Shaver examine how attachment operates not only in close dyadic relationships (parent–child, romantic partners), but also between teachers and students, therapists and clients, physicians and patients, leaders and followers, and within organizations. Also considered is the nature of "attachments" to objects; commercial brands; substances, such as foods and drugs; and places. The book highlights ways to integrate attachment theory with other influential social and psychological theories concerning factors that enable individuals, groups, and societies to flourish despite inevitable threats, conflicts, and losses.

See also the related work from Mikulincer and Shaver, Attachment Theory Fostering Personal Growth through Healthy Relationships .

Genres: Relationships

435 pages, Hardcover

Published July 24, 2023

Reviews

[Daniel Im · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent resource that expands the core concepts of attachment theory (through the lens of security dynamics) beyond primary attachment figures (parents, close friends, romantic partners/spouses) to other dyadic relationships (teacher-student, manager-worker, therapist client), relationships with social groups, relationships with organizations (workplaces, social clubs, social institutions and agencies like government, police, hospitals), religious/spiritual relationships with supernatural and spiritually significant figures and their earthly representatives (clergy, religious communities and institutions), and relationships to objects, commercial brands, foods, substances, and places that are associated with feelings of safety, relief, and comfort. This book will serve as a foundation for future research on the expanded theory of attachment in clinical, educational, and social contexts.