A longitudinal study of Q-sort attachment security and self-processes at age 5

Abstract

Attachment theory predicts that a sense of self emerges from early interactive relationships with significant others. In the current study, concurrent and predictive relations of child–mother Q-sort attachment security to self-concept and self-esteem in 5-year-old children is examined. Concurrent attachment security scores are positively related to a puppet interview measure of self-esteem, and children who are able to admit imperfections in themselves have higher attachment security scores at age 5. Attachment security at age 2 is not positively related to self-processes, however, and security at either age does not predict overall self-concept as measured by the Harter Scales. The results suggest that a secure attachment relationship is important for children to feel comfortable in presenting a realistic perspective of themselves.