Disorganized attachment, absorption, and new age spirituality: a mediational model

Authors: Granqvist, Pehr; Fransson, Mari; Hagekull, Berit

Source: Attachment & Human Development, Volume 11, Number 4, July 2009 , pp. 385-403(19)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

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Abstract:

In this paper, we present a theoretical model and an empirical review linking disorganized attachment with New Age spiritual beliefs and activities via a proposed mediator; the propensity to enter altered states of consciousness (absorption/dissociation). Utilizing a prospective longitudinal design (N = 62), an empirical test of the mediational model is also provided for illustrational purposes. More specifically, we tested if unresolved/disorganized (U/d) attachment scores, as identified via the Adult Attachment Interview at the first assessment point, predicted New Age spirituality 3 years later, and whether this link was mediated by absorption. Results supported the mediational model, although the bivariate relation between U/d attachment and New Age spirituality was of modest strength. The discussion focuses on the general implications, clinical as well as non-clinical, of the proposed model. Finally, we argue that time is now ripe for attachment researchers to address additional non-pathological sequelae of disorganized attachment and the related propensity to experience altered states of consciousness.

Keywords: disorganized attachment; Adult Attachment Interview; absorption; dissociation; New Age; spirituality; religion

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14616730903016995

Affiliations: 1: Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden

Publication date: 2009-07-01

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