Attachment styles and emotional resilience of adults with a history of severe childhood neglect : the perspectives of psychologists and psychotherapists

Abstract

The current study explored psychologists and psychotherapists’ perspectives in relation to emotional resilience and attachment patterns of adults who experienced childhood neglect. Five psychologists and psychotherapists were recruited as participants for this qualitative study using purposive sampling. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted online, via Zoom. Data arising from these interviews was transcribed verbatim and analysed using Thematic Analysis. The themes elicited delved into the different forms as well as several protective and risk factors for such. The implications of childhood neglect including toward the self of those abused, their relationships, emotional resilience, adult functioning and attachment, were also presented. The role of therapy and projections with the therapist as a secure way to move forward were also elaborated. Along with relevant literature, findings from the present research suggest that both locally and internationally, neglect is overlooked, while professionals’ viewpoints need to be further considered.