Using Attachment Theory to Study Communication Motives in Father–Daughter Relationships

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate communication motives using attachment theory in father–daughter relationships. Two hundred and seven father–daughter dyads participated in the study. Results revealed that attachment styles were similar for all communication motives, except for the motive of escape. Dyads with secure attachment styles were more likely than anxious/ambivalent attachment styles to communicate for escape. Results also indicated that attachment styles did not influence fathers' communication motives. In other words, fathers communicated with their daughters regardless of how daughters' attach themselves to their fathers. These findings contribute to the understanding of the relationship between attachment styles and communication motives in father–daughter interpersonal relationships.