Childhood trauma, relationship satisfaction and attachment styles in young adults

T S, Fathima Ahlam and Sinha, Anjana (2025) Childhood trauma, relationship satisfaction and attachment styles in young adults. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 26 (1). pp. 103-110. ISSN 2581-9615

This study examines the influence of childhood trauma on adult attachment styles and relationship satisfaction among young adults in Karnataka, India. Using a sample of 200 participants, the research explores how adverse early-life experiences shape interpersonal relationships in adulthood, specifically focusing on attachment patterns and relationship quality. The data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation and the Mann-Whitney U test. Results revealed significant correlations: childhood trauma positively correlated with insecure attachment styles (rho = 0.415, p < .001) and negatively with relationship satisfaction (rho = -0.407, p < .001), indicating that higher trauma levels are associated with attachment insecurities and lower relationship satisfaction. A negative correlation was also found between insecure attachment and relationship satisfaction (rho = -0.221, p = .002), suggesting attachment insecurities adversely affect relationship quality. The Mann-Whitney U test showed no significant group differences, highlighting the consistency of these associations across demographic subgroups. These findings underscore the long-term impact of childhood trauma on attachment and relationship satisfaction, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed therapeutic interventions. Recommendations include incorporating trauma-focused approaches in therapy.