Attachment Styles and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Trauma-Exposed Older Adults: Evidence From a non-Western Context

This study aimed to examine the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and attachment styles among older adults exposed to traumatic events. A descriptive–correlational design was employed using a stratified random sample of 534 participants from Irbid Governorate, Jordan. The study makes three key contributions to the literature by addressing the underrepresentation of elderly populations in trauma research, particularly within non-Western and Arab contexts. Data were collected using validated measures of PTSD and attachment styles. The findings indicated that PTSD symptoms and attachment styles were present at moderate levels. Anxious attachment was the most prevalent style, followed by avoidant and secure attachment. Correlation analysis revealed that secure attachment was negatively associated with PTSD, whereas anxious and avoidant attachment styles showed significant positive associations with PTSD symptoms. These findings highlight the dual role of attachment styles as both protective and risk factors in trauma-related outcomes. The results underscore the importance of developing culturally sensitive interventions that enhance secure attachment, strengthen social support, and improve emotional regulation among older adults. The study provides valuable cross-cultural evidence that contributes to the global understanding of PTSD and attachment processes in later life