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05-02-2022 | Original Paper

Attachment Security and Character Strengths in Early Adolescence

Auteurs: Kathryn A. Kerns, Carli A. Obeldobel, Logan B. Kochendorfer, Marissa Gastelle

Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Child and Family Studies | Uitgave 9/2023

Abstract

Secure attachments to parents have been linked to social competence, but few studies address how attachment is related to character strengths. This study examined how attachment security is associated with a broad set of character strengths in early adolescence. In a mixed methods study with a sample of 10- to 14-year-olds (N = 92), we assessed attachment with the Friends and Family Interview, which was scored for markers of secure attachment. Children completed the Values in Action Inventory questionnaire of character strengths. More securely attached children more strongly endorsed Interpersonal Strengths (fairness, forgiveness, humor, and kindness), Temperance Strengths (honesty, persistence, and prudence), and the Transcendent Strength of spirituality. By contrast, secure attachment did not predict Intellectual Strengths (creativity, love of learning, appreciation of beauty). The findings show that secure attachments are associated with several character strengths, and future work could consider the foundational processes that account for these associations.

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Titel: Attachment Security and Character Strengths in Early Adolescence
Auteurs: Kathryn A. Kerns
Carli A. Obeldobel
Logan B. Kochendorfer
Marissa Gastelle
Publicatiedatum: 05-02-2022
Uitgeverij: Springer US
Gepubliceerd in: Journal of Child and Family Studies / Uitgave 9/2023
Print ISSN: 1062-1024
Elektronisch ISSN: 1573-2843
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-022-02230-3

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Attachment Security and Character Strengths in Early Adolescence

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Bohn Stafleu van Loghum

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