Lauren Lee L&S Social Sciences
Beyond the Dyad: Rethinking “Insecure” Attachment Across Cultures
Why do some people seem “too distant” in relationships, while others feel “too clingy?” Who decides what levels of intimacy are “secure” as opposed to “insecure?” How might different cultures shape what it means to experience love, depend on others, and express emotion?
Attachment theory is traditionally framed as the bond between early caregivers and children that shapes relationships across the lifespan, often assuming that these patterns are universal. I challenge this assumption sociologically by asking: How do collectivist and individualist contexts shape individual experiences of attachment, if at all?
In individualist cultures, independence and vulnerability are seen as signs of a healthy relationship. In contrast, collectivist cultures may value emotional restraint and interdependence as expressions of care and respect. As a result, someone who appears “emotionally closed off” or overly dependent in one context may, in another, be demonstrating attunement or maturity.
In such a diverse world, it is crucial to consider cross-cultural experiences of attachment. With this project, I hope to foster empathy and deeper connection, both essential to our nature as social beings.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you so much for supporting my research this summer. Your generosity will allow me to explore how these differences in cultural contexts shape the way people experience attachment and intimacy, something I believe is crucial when navigating such a complex society and world. I hope this work will contribute to greater compassion that will help reduce feelings of isolation across diverse communities. Thank you again for your trust in my project!