The influence of adult attachment and conflict management on dyadic cohesion: a pilot study.

Introduction. A large number of studies have shown that the quality of marital adjustment is related to the adult attachment styles. Moreover other studies have shown that the quality of marital adjustment is also related to the individual differences in handling conflicts. Attachment theory provides a framework to understand different ways to face to the emerging conflicts as well as to increase our knowledge on marital adjustment. Aim. Goals of the current pilot study are: 1) testing the role of individual ability in handling conflicts; 2) evaluating the influence of the adult attachment styles on the quality of marital adjustment. Method. We administered Experience in Close Relationship-Revised, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and Interpersonal Competence Questionnaire-Revised to 32 married or cohabitant subjects. Results. A multiple regression model was performed. Preliminary results show that avoidant style and the conflict management subscale significantly influence the dyadic cohesion subscale (F(2,29)=10.696; p<0,001). Indeed, lower scores of avoidance and higher scores in the ability to handle conflicts positively influence the dialogue and the dyadic abilities to share activities and interest within the couple. However the adult attachment style and the ability to manage conflicts did not influence the total marital adjustment. Conclusion. Avoidant attachment style works as a significant predictor of difficulties in dyadic cohesion, while interpersonal competences in handling conflicts is a predictor of a good-enough dyadic cohesion. Lastly data shows that individual differences in attachment style and conflict management do not influence the overall couple adjustment.