This study explores the subjective experience of Love Addiction (LA) and addressed the lack of qualitative tools. Study 1 reviewed literature, finding limited clinical research and no validated LA-specific instruments. Study 2 developed and validated the Love Addiction Interview (LAI), a semi-structured tool tested on 33 clinical patients. Thematic and psychodynamic analyses revealed key emotional dimensions, ego-dystonicity, and relational distress. Results support the LAI’s clinical value for case formulation and highlight its potential for integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches. This work offers a preliminary foundation for advancing research and practice in understanding and addressing LA.
A Voice in the Minds of Love Addicts: Textual Analysis of Clinical Interviews / Cavalli, Roberta Gabriella; Velotti, Patrizia. - In: THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF FAMILY THERAPY. - ISSN 0192-6187. - 2:54(2026), pp. 234-252. [10.1080/01926187.2025.2547627]
A Voice in the Minds of Love Addicts: Textual Analysis of Clinical Interviews
Roberta Gabriella Cavalli;Patrizia Velotti
2026
Abstract
This study explores the subjective experience of Love Addiction (LA) and addressed the lack of qualitative tools. Study 1 reviewed literature, finding limited clinical research and no validated LA-specific instruments. Study 2 developed and validated the Love Addiction Interview (LAI), a semi-structured tool tested on 33 clinical patients. Thematic and psychodynamic analyses revealed key emotional dimensions, ego-dystonicity, and relational distress. Results support the LAI’s clinical value for case formulation and highlight its potential for integrating qualitative and quantitative approaches. This work offers a preliminary foundation for advancing research and practice in understanding and addressing LA.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
