Defense mechanism is predicted by attachment and mediates the maladaptive influence of insecure attachment on adolescent mental health

• DOI: 10.1007/s12144-018-9839-1
• Publication Date: 2018-04-04T05:05:17Z
• Authors: Clarissa Laczkovics; Gregory Fonzo; Brianna Bendixsen; Emmanuel Shpigel; Ihno Lee; Katrin Skala; Antonio Prunas; James Gross; Hans Steiner; Julia Huemer
• Keywords: Insecure attachment; Defence mechanisms

There is limited research exploring attachment style and defenses in adolescents. The purpose of the current to explore relationship between adolescent development defense mechanisms, as well problem behaviors. A total 1487 students from two California high-schools completed three self-report questionnaires establish psychiatric symptoms, style. Attachment styles characterized by a positive self-image predict greater levels mature lower immature both interpersonal intrapsychic domains. Relationships insecure psychopathology were mediated mechanisms. These results provide initial compelling evidence that: a) an important determinant type mechanisms utilized individual maintain psychological stability; b) serve transmit detrimental effects on health.