Role of Alexithymia in Coping Strategies and Attachment Style Among Middle-Adults

This study investigates the relationship between alexithymia, coping strategies, and attachment styles in middle-aged adults. Alexithymia, characterized by difficulties in identifying and expressing emotions, is often linked to maladaptive coping mechanisms and insecure attachment patterns. The study involved 207 participants aged 40-60 who completed the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), BRIEF Cope Scale, and Adult Attachment Scale (AAS). The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between alexithymia and avoidant coping strategies, indicating that individuals with higher levels of alexithymia tend to avoid dealing with stress. Additionally, alexithymia was negatively correlated with secure attachment, suggesting that those with emotional processing difficulties are less likely to form secure emotional bonds. No significant gender differences were found in alexithymia, coping strategies, or attachment styles, implying that these emotional challenges are experienced similarly across genders in middle adulthood. The study underscores the importance of therapeutic interventions aimed at improving emotional awareness and expression to promote healthier coping mechanisms and stronger attachment patterns. The findings of the current study contribute to the understanding of how alexithymia impacts emotional regulation and relationships in middle adulthood and suggest pathways for future research and clinical applications.