Attachment Disorganization and Its Relevance to Sexual Offending

• NCJ Number: 216168
• Journal: Journal of Family Violence Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: April 2006 Pages: 221-231
• Author(s): Elina Baker; Anthony Beech; Mary Tyson
• Date Published: April 2006
• Length: 11 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Theoretical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper reviews theory and evidence concerning the nature and consequences of disorganized attachment, to suggest that there may be a connection between disorganized attachment style and sexual offending.

Abstract

In reviewing the theoretical nature and observed consequences of attachment disorganization, it is apparent that individuals with a disorganized attachment style will experience difficulties in relating to others and in reflecting on and controlling their own internal states and behavior. Their interpersonal relationships may be characterized by strongly conflicting attitudes, feelings, and relational strategies. This disorganized attachment style could supply the right conditions that facilitate sexual offending. Further investigation into the link between disorganized attachment style and sexual offending is recommended, to find alternative means of measuring attachment disorganization in adults. In his theory of attachment, Bowlby proposes that one source of adult psychopathology may be the patterns of early interactions between a child and their caretaker. These interactions are internalized in the form of “internal working models” of self. When children develop negative representations of self or adopt defensive regulatory strategies that exclude some attachment-related information from consciousness, they may be prone to developing psychological difficulties in later life. Two research studies have indicated a link between the disorganized attachment style and psychopathology in both children and adults. In this paper, the theoretical nature of attachment disorganization within these two separate research traditions is reviewed. It reviews theory and evidence concerning the nature and consequences of disorganized attachment style to suggest that there may be a link between disorganized attachment style and sexual offending. Recommendations are presented about possible approaches to further examination of this connection. Tables, figure, and references