ATTACHMENT STYLES AND FEAR OF INTIMACY IN COUPLES: THE ROLE OF GENDER

Authors

  • Hafiza Rabia Noreen*
  • Haram Siddique
  • Sehrish Rafique
  • Muhammad Akbar
  • Rabeeia Javed
  • Sadiya Zenab

Abstract

The present study investigates attachment style and fear of intimacy among couples. It is a qualitative study. A total of 200 married participants were assessed using the qualitative interviews. Results revealed significant variations across most variables. Men exhibited higher levels of secure and dismissive attachment suggesting stronger emotional autonomy and confidence in interpersonal expression. Conversely, women scored higher on fearful and preoccupied attachment styles and reported greater fear of intimacy, reflecting heightened emotional sensitivity and relational anxiety. The findings highlight that gender plays a crucial role in shaping attachment dynamics and comfort with closeness in marital relationships. The study underscores the importance of understanding these psychological differences for promoting emotional well-being and marital satisfaction through gender-sensitive counseling and relational interventions.

Keywords: Attachment Style, Fear Of Intimacy, Gender, Qualitative Study.

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Published

2025-11-09

How to Cite

Hafiza Rabia Noreen*, Haram Siddique, Sehrish Rafique, Muhammad Akbar, Rabeeia Javed, & Sadiya Zenab. (2025). ATTACHMENT STYLES AND FEAR OF INTIMACY IN COUPLES: THE ROLE OF GENDER. Policy Journal of Social Science Review, 3(11), 131–134. Retrieved from https://policyjssr.com/index.php/PJSSR/article/view/591

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 11 (2025): Policy Journal of Social Science Review

Section

Articles