Reconnoitering the Association Between Childhood Trauma and Perceived Attachment Styles: A Study Conducted in Northern and Western Prisons of India

Abstract

Background: Experiences of childhood trauma in early years can have a devastating effect on an individual. Such experiences can often lead to difficulty developing healthy relationships and, in turn, influence relationships in adulthood. Understanding the relationship between such adverse experiences and attachment styles among prisoners, a population that is often neglected by society, is essential and, therefore, was the driving factor to conduct this study. The current study aimed at exploring the link between early traumatic experiences and perceived attachment styles among Indian prisoners. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used to collect data from prisons in the North and West regions of India. A sample of 200 prisoners (184 males, 16 females) aged 18–60 years was included in the study. The measures included the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Revised Adult Attachment Scale, and Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Index. Results: Descriptive analysis revealed key socio-demographic characteristics of the participants. Neglect was observed to be more prevalent than other forms of abuse. Significant correlation was obtained between trauma and perceived attachment styles. Regression analysis indicated emotional abuse as a strong predictor of attachment-related anxiety and difficulty depending on others. Prisoners with fearful and preoccupied attachment styles reported greater exposure to physical abuse than those with a secure attachment style. Conclusions: Our study provides preliminary highlights on the complex interplay between different forms of childhood trauma and their influence on adult attachment dimensions, highlighting the relevance of developing individualistic-based intervention strategies for prisoners to better aid in their rehabilitation.