Sara Sheraz (BS, 2014-2018) Supervisor: Shazia Qayyum, PhD
University: Institute of Applied Psychology, Punjab University, Lahore, Pakistan
Corresponding Address: Department of Applied Psychology, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan. Email: chairperson@appsy.pu.edu.pk, Phone: 92-42-9231245
Abstract:
The study explored the relationship between attachment styles and self- determination in adolescents reared in army families. Cross sectional research design and non-probability sampling technique were used to recruit a sample of N = 200 boys and girls students from school and colleges. A self-constructed demographic questionnaire, Revised Adult Attachment Scale (Collins, 1996) – Close Relationships Version) and Self-Determination Scale (Deci & amp; Rayan, 1996) were used. Results were generated by analysing the data through Pearson product moment correlation which revealed that an anxious attachment style had significant negative correlation with close and dependent attachment style and self-determination. Also, dependent attachment style had significant positive link with close attachment style. Age and education had significant positive correlation with self-determination and dependent attachment style. Multiple regression analysis was also conducted to examine the predictors of self-determination and it revealed that anxious attachment was negative predictor of self-determination. Independent sample t-test showed that gender differences in attachment style with girls having dependent attachment style were more determined than boys with dependent attachment. There were no differences in self- determination and attachment styles with respect to father’s job. These results have implications in many family and educational settings. So in order to grow self-determination skill in adolescents, one has to focus on their rearing patterns and parental support.
Keywords: Attachment styles, self-determination, adolescents.
