What type of attachment is characterized by a lack of trust in relationships?

Avoidant attachment is characterized by a lack of trust in relationships, primarily due to an individual's discomfort with closeness and reliance on others. Individuals with avoidant attachment often prioritize independence and self-sufficiency over emotional connections, which can lead to distancing behaviors in relationships. They may have learned during their early interactions, often with caregivers, that expressing emotions or seeking closeness is not met with responsive support. This creates a pattern of avoidance where they feel they cannot depend on others, leading to difficulties in forming intimate relationships or trusting others.

In contrast, secure attachment involves a healthy balance of dependence and independence, with individuals feeling safe to express their needs and emotions. Disorganized attachment typically results from inconsistent caregiving experiences, leading to confusion in relationships and an inability to develop coherent attachment strategies. Ambivalent attachment is characterized by anxiety regarding the availability of others, resulting in clinginess and extreme emotional responses when relationships feel threatened. Each of these attachment styles reflects different ways individuals navigate their emotional connections, highlighting the nuanced nature of interpersonal relationships.