Attachment and the use of negative relational maintenance behaviors in romantic relationships. (original) (raw)

Various studies have shown that relationship maintenance includes both prosocial behaviors and antisocial strategies. While most research focuses on positive behaviors like support and affection, antisocial behaviors might also help maintain romantic relationships, especially in dissatisfied couples. This study investigates how adult attachment styles influence the use of negative relational maintenance behaviors, revealing that different attachment styles, such as secure, preoccupied, fearful, and dismissive, lead to varying frequencies of behaviors like jealousy induction, avoidance, and infidelity.