ABSTRACT
Attachment theory has become one of the most influential theories in psychology, generating an explosion of empirical research and myriad clinical and educational applications. At the heart of attachment theory is a conception of what we are calling security dynamics, a set of psychological processes involved in the search for social sources of safety and security in the context of threats and challenges and the consequences of being comforted, appreciated, supported, and encouraged by others for emotional regulation and goal pursuit. In the current chapter, we focus on the role security dynamics play in shaping the ways we think, experience, and cope with existential concerns of uncertainty, mortality, and meaninglessness. Specifically, we present ideas and evidence that people tend to search for the proximity and support from close relationship partners, social groups and organizations, and supernatural figures when facing existential threats and challenges. Moreover, we review evidence that feeling safe and secure regarding the support of these protective figures in times of need (attachment security) contributes to effective management of existential concerns and adaptive functioning of the social mind/brain.
