The Reassuring Truth

Abstract

The reassuring truth is that we are wired for interpersonal attachments. This is a fundamental human motivation.1 It is incredibly powerful. It is that power that is reassuring. We need frequent interactions with people with whom we have an ongoing bond. Feeling that you belong somewhere, with some people, has multiple strong effects on emotional patterns and cognitive processes. A lack of attachment causes pain, increases our perception of stress, impairs cognitive functioning, and can interfere with the immune response.