ABSTRACT
The starting point for understanding how attachment theory might be applied to couple relationships can be found in John Bowlby's hypothesis, which holds that throughout the lifespan individuals establish preferential bonds–attachments–that contain four fundamental behavioural features. They includes: seeking and maintaining proximity, safe haven, protest at separation, and secure base. In other words, an adult needs to feel that their partner is emotionally close, not necessarily to have them physically present. Adult attachment bonds, like those in childhood, are emotionally intense and demanding, and are defined by the quality of the relationship between the partners. Attachment relationships provide a context within which the capacity to regulate emotions can be acquired. The neurobiological basis of attachment is of less importance than asking for how long the adult brain is elastic enough to be influenced by significant interpersonal experiences as romantic relationships. In addition to neurobiology, attachment theory has also looked at the psychophysiological aspects of adult attachment.
