A dyadic study examining the association between attachment security and physical health in monoga

Although a considerable body of research has examined the relationship between attachment and health, it has rarely been investigated via dyadic means. Much of this research focuses on mental health, rather than physical health outcomes. Further, attachment style is often assessed as being stable over time and relationships, when in fact, attachment patterns can change across both variables. The lack of dyadic methodology examining this relationship is particularly concerning as attachment is an interdependent process – meaning individuals impact one another in meaningful ways. The present study sought to employ the Actor – Partner Interdependence Model to examine the relationship between attachment security and physical health outcomes among couples. Both actor and partner effects were explored. Participants were 60 heterosexual, monogamous couples. An initial model indicated a statistically significant actor effect such that men who were higher in attachment anxiety experienced a decrease in physical health outcomes. However, a second model accounting for order of survey completion, did not result in any statistically significant actor or partner effects. The second model indicated men who responded second (i.e., after their female partners) reported better physical health outcomes compared to men who responded first. Neither model indicated statistically significant partner effects. Results and implications are discussed in relation to the attachment – health link.