Intergenerational transmission of attachment patterns in families of adolescents with non-suicidal self-injury: the mediating role of child insecure attachment.
Abstract
Objective
The objective of this study was to evaluate the direct and indirect associations between parental insecure attachment and non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) in adolescents, with particular emphasis on the mediating role of insecure attachment in the child and the differential contributions of paternal and maternal attachment patterns.
Methods
A cross-sectional design was employed involving 74 adolescents aged 10-19 years and their parents. Participants were categorized into three groups: adolescents with NSSI (NSSI group), adolescents diagnosed with mood disorders without NSSI (clinical control group), and healthy controls. Attachment patterns were assessed using the Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory. Mediation effects were examined using structural equation modeling.
Results
Insecure attachment in the child was a significant predictor of NSSI in adolescents (β = 0.823, p = 0.003). Neither paternal nor maternal insecure attachment demonstrated a direct association with NSSI. However, insecure attachment in fathers was significantly associated with insecure attachment in the child (β = 0.852, p = 0.043). A statistically significant indirect effect was observed between paternal insecure attachment and adolescent NSSI through insecure attachment in the child (β = 0.701, p = 0.047). The corresponding mediation pathway involving maternal insecure attachment was not statistically significant.
Conclusions
Insecure attachment in the child served as a key mediating factor in the association between paternal insecure attachment and NSSI. These findings suggest that paternal attachment patterns may have a distinct influence on the development of attachment insecurity in adolescents. Preventive and therapeutic interventions may benefit from addressing attachment security in both parents and children, with particular consideration given to paternal attachment within intergenerational transmission processes. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER Not applicable.