Past relationships with caregivers can influence a person’s future relationships. When children have needs met through the consistent accessibility and responsiveness of a caregiver, a secure attachment is often created between the child and the parent figure. Secure attachment is linked with better relationships in the present and the future.1, 2, 5, 8, 9 Secure individuals tend to be more trusting and able to be vulnerable in relationships.1, 5, 8
Children who do not have their attachment needs met in consistent ways may form insecure attachments to caregivers.1, 2, 5 These individuals face challenges from their past that can influence future relationship formation as well. 2, 5, 8
Below are some defense mechanisms that may develop because of past experiences with inaccessibility and non-responsiveness. The first set of responses can be called anxious. These people may have seen their caregivers loving others but did not receive steady love from them. They may try to do all they can to earn the love of a romantic partner but never feel fully safe in that love.1, 5, 6, 9 Signs of an anxious attachment style include:
- Desperate need for closeness
- Worry their partner will leave or hurt them
- Struggle to see themselves as loveable
- Overthink signs
- Become easily jealous and concerned about the relationship
The second category is often labeled avoidant. Based on the past, individuals often feel they cannot trust or get close to others fearing harm or rejection.7, 11 Common aspects of avoidantly attached people include:
- Feel they cannot trust or depend on others
- Distance themselves from others
- Bury need for closeness and intimacy
- Independent
- Withdraw and become defensive
- Hide problems to protect loved ones
- Feel they should be able to solve problems on their own and not burden others
These challenges and behaviors may make forming relationships difficult. All is not lost. Certain actions, called partner buffering, are a way to shield and strengthen the relationship. Partner buffering is defined as actions taken by the couple to help the insecure partner feel and be better. Here are some of the actions that can fortify partners and the relationship.
Show Love and Support
The first strategy is the romantic partner showing love and support.6 11 People from an insecure background are often battling thoughts and fears of their partner leaving them or no longer loving them.1, 5, 11 Many of them struggle with doubt that they are loved, valued and can trust others for support.1, 5, 7 To ease these fears, the partner can give words of reassurance, validation, comfort and love.
Individuals who showed love and support often, had partners who had less anxiety.6, 7, 11 As support continues, the insecure individual may connect feelings of security, comfort, love, with his or her partner, even if childhood experiences proved otherwise.6,11 This increases the quality of the relationship and strengthens the bond between them.11
Positive Communication
Another powerful strategy is using positive communication and influence. This tries to make stressful conversations less threatening and more positive. Strategies include:
- Decreasing the intensity of the issue
- Pointing out good things in the relationship
- Being caring and accepting
- Being optimistic about the problem
- Softening harsh or negative reactions with positivity and humor.7, 11
Using these strategies while talking about negative issues brought more success working through problems.3, 11 These methods help both partners see that the conflict is not a threat but a source of growth. The use of these methods is associated with lower negative emotions and better conflict resolution.7, 11 This includes less defensiveness, pulling away, hostility, or anxiety.4, 7 These positive interactions decrease the tension and combat defensive reactions.7
Recognize Partner’s Positive Past Actions and Express Confidence
Validating the partner’s worries and distress while bringing up a tense subject can ease the partner’s possible defensiveness.3, 7, 12 Individuals can also focus on their partner’s past efforts to change and better the relationship.3, 7, 11 Recognizing past acts by the partner shows support and gratitude for the efforts made.3 This reminds insecure individuals that change is possible. In addition, the appreciation of past efforts shows that their partner remembers and values the changes.
Expressing confidence also motivates the individual with insecurities to change, even if their first reaction is to place up defenses.3, 7, 11 This strategy increases cooperation.7, 10 Some insecure partners were even more obliging to their partner’s requests than those without past insecurities when buffering was in place.3, 7, 10 This pattern proves to be true even with big sacrifices.
Remembering positive experiences and voicing confidence in the partner’s abilities helps the insecure partner feel supported and able to accept criticism. The couple is then able to work together better and has more success working through problems or conflicts.
Outcomes of Partner Buffering
Partner buffering can reduce insecurity and help partners feel and be better.3, 11 The actions taken by the partner can be in response to a defense mechanism or can stop negative responses before they start.3, 11 Past insecure attachment may negatively affect an individual and the romantic relationship. However, the following benefits can come to relationships that recognize the past obstacles and have the partners approach the challenge together.
- Trust, Commitment, and Security. Deeper trust, commitment, and security is associated with those couples who buffer against negative defense mechanisms.3, 7, 10 Without partner buffering, these relationships may struggle with feelings of insecurity, discontent, and a lack of trust.2, 5, 8 However, when buffering is in place, these relationships are linked with a greater sense of trust and security in the relationship.
- Less Harmful Tendencies. Buffering is linked with more acceptance and less harmful tendencies by the insecure partner.3, 7 Individuals with a past of insecure attachment may withdraw, become jealous, lash out, or push away in response to stressful or threatening situations.3, 7, 11
In relationships with supportive partners, there is an increased desire for closeness during and after emotional distress rather than withdrawal or anxiety.12, 13 When these individuals see the relationship as high quality, they are willing to risk closeness even during stressful situations that trigger defense mechanisms.12 Partner buffering lessens the defenses of the partner and builds security rather than the urge to protect against possible rejection.
- Strengthens Relationship. These tactics may be able to protect the relationship against the possible defenses of the past and increase the quality of the relationship. Partner buffering motivates and helps the insecure partner to act, think, and feel in ways that are helpful to the relationship rather than harmful.3 As buffering methods are used, the relationship quality increases.3, 7 In fact, when these strategies are used by both individuals in the relationship, couples with an insecure partner can have as strong or stronger relationships as those with past secure attachment.2
Conclusion
As couples draw closer together, even the dark parts of their past, their fears, and the shadows of their experiences can increase their bond rather than threaten their relationship. Regardless of past circumstances, they help each other, support one another, and walk the path together. As they do so, they can shield the relationship from prior negative tendencies which either of them may have developed. The couple lowers the walls and build in that place a sanctuary: a place of love, trust, and light.
Written by Allie Stites, edited by Brittany Passmore and Professors Julie Haupt, Jonathan Sandberg, and Stephen F. Duncan, School of Family Life, Brigham Young University. January 26, 2019.
References
- Banerjee, S., & Basu, J. (2014). Personality factors, attachment styles and coping strategies in couples with good and poor marital quality. Psychological Studies, 59(1), 59-67. doi:10.1007/s12646-013-0233-7
- Bradford, A. B., Burningham, K. L., Sandberg, J. G., & Johnson, L. N. (2017). The association between the parent-child relationship and symptoms of anxiety and depression: The roles of attachment and perceived spouse attachment behaviors. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 43(2), 291-307. doi:10.1111/jmft.12190
- Farrell, A. K., Simpson, J. A., Overall, N. C., & Shallcross, S. L. (2016). Buffering the responses of avoidantly attached romantic partners in strain test situations. Journal of Family Psychology, 30(5), 580-591. doi:10.1037/fam0000186; 10.1037/fam0000186.supp (Supplemental)
- Girme, Y. U., Overall, N. C., Simpson, J. A., & Fletcher, G. J. (2015). “All or nothing”: Attachment avoidance and the curvilinear effects of partner support. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 108, 450-475. doi:10.1037/a0038866
- Knoke, J., Burau, J., & Roehrle, B. (2010). Attachment styles, loneliness, quality, and stability of marital relationships. Journal of Divorce & Remarriage, 51(5), 310-325. doi:10.1080/10502551003652017
- Lemay, E. P. Jr., & Dudley, K. L. (2011). Caution: Fragile! Regulating the interpersonal security of chronically insecure partners. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 100, 681-702. doi:10.1037/a0021655
- Overall, N. C., Simpson, J. A., & Struthers, H. (2013). Buffering attachment-related avoidance: Softening emotional and behavioral defenses during conflict discussions. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 104, 854-871. doi:10.1037/a0031798
- Rackham, E. L., Larson, J. H., Willoughby, B. J., Sandberg, J. G., & Shafer, K. M. (2017). Do partner attachment behaviors moderate avoidant conflict-resolution styles and relationship self-regulation? American Journal of Family Therapy, 45(4), 206-219. doi:10.1080/01926187.2017.1338975
- Sandberg, J. G., Bradford, A. B., & Brown, A. P. (2017). Differentiating between attachment styles and behaviors and their association with marital quality. Family Process, 56(2), 518-531. doi: 10.1111/famp.12186
- Shallcross, S. L., & Simpson, J. A. (2012). Trust and responsiveness in strain-test situations: A dyadic perspective. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 102, 1031-1044. doi: 10.1037/a0026829
- Simpson, J. A., & Overall, N. C. (2014). Partner buffering of attachment insecurity.Current Directions in Psychological Science, 23(1), 54-59. doi:10.1177/0963721413510933
- Slotter, E. B., & Luchies, L. B. (2014). Relationship quality promotes the desire for closeness among distressed avoidantly attached individuals. Personal Relationships, 21, 22-34. doi:10.1111/pere.12015
- Winterheld, H. A. (2017). Hiding feelings for whose sake? Attachment avoidance, relationship connectedness, and protective buffering intentions. Emotion, 17(6), 965-980. doi:10.1037/emo0000291
While many people want a successful marriage, certain individuals may struggle with forming intimate relationships based on past treatment by caregivers. Past relationships with caregivers can influence future ability to create quality relationships. Unhealthy past parent-child relationships may sabotage future attempts at healthy relationships with a partner. When emotional, physical, and mental needs are not met by caregivers the parent and the child may form an insecure attachment.
In romantic relationships these insecurely attached individuals may respond in harmful ways in response to conflict, stress, or threat to the relationship. Some may withdraw and push their romantic partner away while others may become panicked and hostile. As President Howard W. Hunter stated, “We must remember that the same forces of resistance which prevent our progress afford us also opportunities to overcome.”1
A person’s past does not define his or her destiny. That was never God’s plan. He intends for His children to continue to progress and overcome adversity despite the choices others have made. As couples join hands in holy matrimony, they are placing all that they are and were on the altar, including past habits. Vulnerabilities come from many places, but as these are sacrificed for the relationship, the relationship can reach new levels of trust and intimacy.
Nurturing a partner and defending this important relationship from the possible harmful tendencies of that individual’s past can be seen as magnifying the call to “bear one another’s burdens that they may be light.”2 This is another way to fulfill the Lord’s commandment to cleave to one’s spouse.3 To cleave means more than to be with; it is deeper and stronger. It means to stick with strongly, to be strongly attached to and close to someone.4 It means that you are one and face all obstacles together.
Partners, through combatting defenses and cleaving together, shoulder burdens as one and in the process create something beautiful. To do so requires combating vulnerabilities, voicing love, and strengthening communication.
Combating Vulnerabilities
Those who come from insecure backgrounds may have been left with walls, scars, mistrust, and defenses against being hurt. As a result, one or both partners may enter the relationship with defenses that can make them withdraw or push away those they love. In defining this process, Elder Robert D. Hales stated:
When we are marred spiritually or physically, our first reaction is to withdraw into the dark shadows of depression, to blot out hope and joy. . . . This withdrawal will ultimately lead us to rebellion against those who would like to be our friends, those who can help us most, even our family. But worst of all, we finally reject ourselves. Those who are alone and lonely should not retreat to the sanctuary of their private thoughts and chambers. Such retreat will ultimately lead them into the darkening influence of the adversary, which leads to despondency, loneliness, frustration, and to thinking of themselves as worthless.5
The Father of us all did not intend for individuals to go through this life alone. Elder Hales continues, “It is also God’s plan that we cannot return to his presence alone, without the help of someone else.”5 Our closest relationship, a spouse, is especially well prepared to assist. Dealing with issues together can be difficult at times, even scary. It requires vulnerability, which is essential for building intimacy.
In times of perceived threat to the relationship or in times of distress, spouses can be aware of the tendency to retreat and can learn to overcome these natural reactions by building trust and showing sensitivity. As a result, the experience can be one more opportunity to bond. Drawing near to those we love in times of darkness is more powerful than pushing them away. Elder Richard G. Scott said:
Love is a potent healer. Realizing that, Satan would separate you from the power of the love of God, kindred, and friends, who want to help. He would lead you to feel that the walls are pressing in around you and there is no escape or relief. He wants you to believe you lack the capacity to help yourself and that no one else is really interested. If he succeeds, you will be driven to further despair and heartache.6
The Importance of Voicing Love
Spouses may retreat because of a sense of an insecurity. Overcoming insecure thoughts and feelings is possible. Elder Richard G. Scott described these thoughts and fears as a tool of the adversary, saying: “His strategy is to have you think you are not appreciated, loved, or wanted so that you in despair will turn to self-criticism, and in the extreme even to despising yourself and feeling evil when you are not.”6
The frequent voicing of love and support by a partner will help combat these negative feelings. President Russell M. Nelson urged couples:
To say “I love you” and “thank you”—is not difficult. But these expressions of love and appreciation do more than acknowledge a kind thought or deed. . . . As grateful partners look for the good in each other and sincerely pay compliments to one another, wives and husbands will strive to become the persons described in those compliments.7
As partners consistently offer genuine expressions of love and support to their partner, the insecure partner can feel that they are valued. They can trust that the relationship is important and worthwhile. With the consistent demonstration of love and investment, the previously insecure partner can begin to connect feelings of love, comfort, security, and the easing of negative reactions and defensiveness with the other partner over time.
Quality of Communication
While quality marital communication is important in any marriage, it is especially vital for couples with one or more spouses experiencing insecure attachment. Certain communication strategies may be particularly helpful. President Russell M. Nelson stated:
"Good communication includes taking time to plan together. Couples need private time to observe, to talk, and really listen to each other. They need to cooperate—helping each other as equal partners. They need to nurture their spiritual as well as physical intimacy. They should strive to elevate and motivate each other. Marital unity is sustained when goals are mutually understood."7
Truly listening, voicing confidence, being positive about the relationship, recalling past efforts to change, being caring, and softening harshness all will increase the quality of communication, even when conversations initially cause past insecurities to flare up. Softened communication by one partner can lower the defenses of the other spouse, reverse the tendency for the conversation to be threatening, and help the couple focus on developing their ability to solve problems together.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Elder Jeffrey R. Holland said, “We may not be able to alter the journey, but we can make sure no one walks it alone. Surely that is what it means to bear one another’s burdens.”8 As couples draw closer together, even the dark parts of their past, their fears, and the shadows of their experiences can increase their bond rather than threaten their relationship. Regardless of prior circumstances, they help each other, support one another, and walk the path together. As they do so, they can shield the relationship from prior negative tendencies which either of them may have developed. The couple lowers the walls and build in that place a sanctuary: a place of love, trust, and light.
Written by Allie Stites; edited by Brittany Passmore, Professors Julie Haupt and Stephen F. Duncan, School of Family Life, Brigham Young University.
References
- Hunter, H.W. (1980, April). God will have a tried people. Ensign, 20-24.
- Mosiah 8:18.
- Moses 3:24.
- 2018. In Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cleave
- Hales, R.D. (October, 1975). We can’t do it alone. Ensign, 70-73.
- Scott, R.G. (April, 1994). To be healed. Ensign, 13-16.
- Nelson, R.M. (April, 2006). Nurturing marriage. Ensign, 36-39.
- Holland, J.R. (June, 2018). Bearing one another’s burdens. Ensign, 18-22.