Attachment and interpersonal distress: examining the relationship between attachment styles and interpersonal problems in a clinical population

The present study examined the relationship between self‐perceived attachment styles and interpersonal problems. Specifically, we utilized a clinical sample from an outpatient university‐based community clinic who completed the Experiences in Close Relationships Scale‐Revised, the Relationship Questionnaire and Inventory of Interpersonal Problems Circumplex Scales (IIP‐64) as part of a psychological assessment process. The results showed a significant positive correlation between the IIP‐64 total score and both attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance. Findings revealed significant negative relationships between a secure attachment and the dominant, vindictive, cold, socially inhibited and non‐assertive subscales of the IIP‐64. Findings also revealed a significant positive relationship between a fearful attachment and the dominant, vindictive, cold, socially inhibited and non‐assertive subscales of the IIP‐64. Finally, results showed a significant relationship between a dismissive attachment and the dominant subscale of the IIP‐64. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.