Securing Your Relationship: Quality of Intimate Relationships During the COVID-19 Pandemic Can Be Predicted by Attachment Style

• DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.647956
• Publication Date: 2021-07-21T22:41:38Z
• Authors: Stephanie J. Eder; Andrew A. Nicholson; Michal M. Stefanczyk; Michał Pieniak; Judit Martínez-Mo...; Ondra Pešout; Jakub Binter; Patrick Smela; Frank Scharnowski; David Steyrl
• Keywords: Pandemic; Identification

The COVID-19 pandemic along with the restrictions that were introduced within Europe starting in spring 2020 allows for identification of predictors relationship quality during unstable and stressful times. present study began as strict measures enforced response to rising spread virus Austria, Poland, Spain Czech Republic. Here, we investigated romantic relationships among 313 participants movement implemented subsequently phased out cross-nationally. Participants completed self-report questionnaires over a period 7 weeks, where predicted change using machine learning models included variety potential related psychological, demographic environmental variables. On average, our 29% (linear models) 22% (non-linear variance regard quality. most important consisted attachment style (anxious being more influential than avoidant), age, number conflicts relationship. Interestingly, factors such local severity did not exert measurable influence respect predicting As opposed overall quality, lockdown could be accurately by when utilizing selected features. In conclusion, demonstrate cross-culturally security is major predictor restrictions, whereas fear, pathogenic threat, sexual behavior, governmental regulations significantly accuracy prediction.