Emotional processes underlying unregulated dependency in intimate relationships: a comparison between Pathological Affective Dependence and Fear of Intimacy

Purpose This study aims to understand the emotional and cognitive processes underlying Pathological Affective Dependence (PAD) and Fear of Intimacy (FoI), as key precursors of dysfunctional relationships in adulthood and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), considering past and present experiences, beliefs and emotions. We hypothesized that PAD was associated with a disorganized attachment style and early experiences of abuse, while FoI with an avoidant style and parental overcontrol. Finally, we hypothesized a mediating effect of shame and paranoia in the relationship between such experiences and PAD, while only paranoia in FoI. Materials and Methods The study consisted of 303 participants: 220 F, 81 M, and 2N (M = 31.8, SD = 8.33). Participants completed a series of psychometric tests to assess PAD, FoI, Attachment Styles, Parental Styles, Shame, and Paranoia. Multiple regression models were used to assess which attachment and parental styles were associated with the development of PAD and FoI. Finally, two mediating models were estimated to assess the role of shame and paranoia on the relationship between parental styles and PAD and FoI, respectively. Results The results show that PAD is associated with a fearful attachment style, while FoI with a dismissive attachment style. Both conditions are associated with experiences of indifference and parental overcontrol. Both shame and paranoia have a mediating effect in the relationship between dysfunctional parenting styles and PAD, whereas only paranoia in FoI. The results support the relevance of emotional and cognitive processes associated with intimacy and dependency in promoting problematic relational coping and subsequent IPV.