What Attachment is and is Not, and Its Impact on Our Lives

Attachment is not the sole cause of our problems, but it does have a significant impact on our lives. While it used to be believed that an insecure attachment pattern in infancy would determine one's attachment style as an adult, it is now understood to be more complex. Our relationships throughout life can positively or negatively influence us as our brains constantly adapt to our environment. Early attachment sets a trajectory that can continue to affect us in various aspects such as relationships, school, and parenting. However, the good news is that these patterns can be interrupted and changed at any age, regardless of therapy or past experiences, as our innate desire for closeness and self-protection is deeply ingrained.