Childhood trauma, relationship satisfaction and attachment styles in young adults

This study examines the influence of childhood trauma on adult attachment styles and relationship satisfaction among young adults in Karnataka, India. Using a sample of 200 participants, the research explores how adverse early-life experiences shape interpersonal relationships in adulthood, specifically focusing on attachment patterns and relationship quality. The data were analyzed using Spearman’s correlation and the Mann-Whitney U test. Results revealed significant correlations: childhood trauma positively correlated with insecure attachment styles (rho = 0.415, p < .001) and negatively with relationship satisfaction (rho = -0.407, p < .001), indicating that higher trauma levels are associated with attachment insecurities and lower relationship satisfaction. A negative correlation was also found between insecure attachment and relationship satisfaction (rho = -0.221, p = .002), suggesting attachment insecurities adversely affect relationship quality. The Mann-Whitney U test showed no significant group differences, highlighting the consistency of these associations across demographic subgroups. These findings underscore the long-term impact of childhood trauma on attachment and relationship satisfaction, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed therapeutic interventions. Recommendations include incorporating trauma-focused approaches in therapy.