The Relationships Among Attachment Styles, Trauma, and the Retrieval of Early Episodic or Autobiographical Memories

Pooja Melkote, Pace University

Abstract

Childhood attachment styles can significantly impact our emotional and psychological well-being, as well as our approach to relationships in adolescence and adulthood. Prior research studies have demonstrated a relationship between attachment style and early memory retrieval. Similarly, trauma has been associated with memory loss or difficulties with recall. The current study aims to examine the relationship between attachment styles and the retrieval of early memories, as well as the connection between infantile amnesia, and histories of trauma. The study recruited 94 individuals through community outreach and social media. Participants were administered the Experiences in Close Relationships questionnaire (ECR-R), the Childhood Memories Scale (CMS), and the Trauma History Questionnaire (THQ) via Qualtrics. Six participants were excluded from the final analysis. A One-way ANOVA, Pearson product moment correlation, and chi-squared analysis was used to explore the relationship between attachment style, trauma, and early memory retrieval. Findings from the study did not yield significant results due to several limitations and potential moderating or mediating factors. Although not conclusive, the study implies that attachment style could affect memory retrieval, and both attachment style and trauma may influence early memory retrieval, consistent with prior research on this subject. There is a lack of research on how trauma contributes to memory loss, but exploring attachment styles can shed light on the role of positive parent-child relationships in coping with trauma. Studying this topic among adults can help improve evidence-based practices for mental health issues.

Subject Area

Clinical psychology|Psychology|Mental health

Recommended Citation

Melkote, Pooja, "The Relationships Among Attachment Styles, Trauma, and the Retrieval of Early Episodic or Autobiographical Memories" (2023). ETD Collection for Pace University. AAI30633747.
https://digitalcommons.pace.edu/dissertations/AAI30633747

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