Hit & Kiss: Attachment and Intimate Violence

This training examines the role of attachment as an innate motivating force. A secure adult attachment builds a secure dependency which encourages autonomy. The accessibility and responsiveness of a secure attachment figure creates bonds through emotional engagement, and development of trust (Sable, 2008). Fear and uncertainty activate the attachment behavioral system that is reactionary and aggressive, or reactionary and rejecting, which negatively impacts emotional engagement as well as trust. When attachment behavior fails, stress is predictable, and based on the developmental history of the individuals involved, aggressive and hostile means may become a defensive or protective part of the relational strategy.