Adult Attachment Orientations among University Students
Abstract: This study examines adult romantic attachment among university students, focusing on attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance. A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional design was used, involving 50 students aged 18 to 28 years. Data were collected through an online questionnaire using the 12-item Experiences in Close Relationships?Short Form (ECR-S). The results showed moderate attachment anxiety (M = 3.78, SD = 1.03) and low-to-moderate attachment avoidance (M = 3.16, SD = 0.90). A weak positive correlation was observed between the two dimensions (r = .16, p = .264), but the relationship was not statistically significant. Exploratory analysis identified a statistically significant difference in attachment avoidance across years of study, while the observed gender difference in attachment anxiety was not statistically significant. These demographic findings require cautious interpretation because of the small subgroup sizes. Overall, participants reported greater concern about rejection than discomfort with emotional closeness. The findings support examining attachment anxiety and avoidance as distinct dimensions of romantic attachment. However, the small convenience sample, reliance on self-reported responses, and cross-sectional design limit the generalisability of the results. Further research involving larger and more diverse student populations is recommended to examine attachment patterns and their relationship with demographic and interpersonal factors.
Keywords: Adult Attachment, Attachment Anxiety, Attachment Avoidance, Romantic Relationships, University Students
How to Cite?: Neha Agrawal, Dr. Shivanand Pawar, "Adult Attachment Orientations among University Students", Volume 15 Issue 10, October 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 2045-2049, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR261029115733, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR261029115733