ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses elements that might account for the different trajectories couple relationships. Attachment researchers have been curious about what, from the perspective of the attachment styles of each partner, results in durable relationships. In analysing couple outcomes, different features of couple relationships have been studied: satisfaction, happiness, success, stability, length, and levels of commitment. If the crisis and negative feelings associated with it expand into other spheres of the couple relationship, such as their sexual relationship, the challenge posed for the couple increases. The chapter focuses on the role of secure attachment in couple relationships, but also in relation to the functioning of these bonds–especially the presence or absence of a capacity to express needs for comfort and closeness, and to respond adequately to those of a partner. Attending to affect-regulating processes highlights the importance of moving beyond the "matching" or otherwise of attachment patterns in understanding couple relationships, and of focusing on emotions.
