Attachment Issues

Adult attachment disorders refer to difficulties reading emotions, showing affection, and trusting others. These disorders often start in childhood, and they can affect everything from someone’s self-esteem to relationship satisfaction.

In the case of a child experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation, several adult attachment issues can occur. These can include:

• • • Dismissive-Avoidant Attachment: This form of attachment results when the caregiver ignores or rejects a child’s needs. When that child becomes an adult, they may choose to be ultra-independent to protect themselves from being rejected again.
    • Fearful-Avoidant Attachment. When a child experiences and is exposed to abuse and neglect, it is natural for some to fear intimacy and close relationships. In adulthood, those with fearful avoidant attachment are often distrustful, have difficulty sharing emotions, and may seem disconnected from their partner.
    • Anxious-Preoccupied Attachment: This adult may seem clingy or needy and will often require repeated validation in relationships. They will never entirely feel secure, stemming from a childhood with parents who were not consistent in the emotional security they provide. Loving and rejecting the child repeatedly causes the child to question their place and continuously requires ongoing validation.

Treatment can help people become more aware of their attachment styles and adequately communicate their needs with others. EMDR therapists say that it is never too late to have a good childhood! With attachment-focused EMDR, your therapist will help you create new neuro pathways to overrule old painful pathways and let the healing begin.