Bowlby and Ainsworth made clear statements about the importance of attachment in adult life. According to Bowlby, human attachments play ‘a vital role . . . in the life of man from the cradle to the grave’ (1969: 208). Ainsworth (1985, 1991) highlighted the function of the attachment behaviour system in adult relationships, emphasising the secure base phenomenon at its core. She stated that a secure attachment relationship facilitates functioning and competence outside of the relationship. She noted there is ‘a seeking to obtain an experience of security and comfort in the relationship with the partner. If and when such security and comfort are available, the individual is able to move off from the secure base provided by the partner, with the confidence to engage in other activities’ (Ainsworth, 1991: 38). Attachment relationships are distinguished from other adult relationships as those that provide feelings of security and a sense of belonging, without which there is loneliness and restlessness. This is in contrast to relationships that provide guidance or companionship, sexual gratification, opportunities to feel needed or to share common interests or experiences, feelings of competence, alliance and assistance (Ainsworth, 1985, 1991; Weiss, 1974, 1982).