Attachment and relationship satisfaction among first married, remarried, and post-divorce relationships

Abstract

This study examined relationship satisfaction and adult attachment in a sample of 562 participants: 340 in a first marriage (60.5%); 122 separated/divorced from their first spouse (21.7%); and 100 in a second marriage (17.8%). For participants in a relationship (dating or married), findings indicated no differences between groups on relationship satisfaction; instead, attachment served as a better predictor of satisfaction. Further, no differences existed when comparing first- and second-married participants on attachment. Differences existed between separated/divorced participants and first- and second-married participants on most attachment indexes; similarities existed between separated/divorce and second-married participants on levels of preoccupation and model of self. When comparing non-dating and dating separated/divorced participants, dating participants reported higher secure attachment and models of others and lower fearful attachment. Clinical and research implications will be discussed. Practitioner points: Contrary to most extant literature, attachment styles and behaviour may be a better predictor of relationship satisfaction than relationship type (e.g. first vs. second marriage) Consider the important role of attachment within relationships throughout adulthood and how attachment styles may differ in different types of relationships Attachment frameworks should be used when developing interventions for couples to increase relationship satisfaction and attachment security.