Understanding Attachment Styles and Their Impact

Attachment theory emphasizes the role of early relationships with caregivers in shaping an individual’s attachment style, which influences their behavior in adult relationships, including those at work. There are four main attachment styles: secure, preoccupied (anxious), avoidant, and disorganized, each existing on a continuum rather than being strictly categorized. For instance, a preoccupied person tends to crave relationships and experiences high anxiety when feeling disconnected, while an avoidant individual may prefer autonomy and feel overwhelmed by intimacy. Recognizing how these styles manifest in personal and professional contexts can help individuals manage their interactions and expectations in the workplace.