Attachment styles and problematic involvement in potentially addictive behaviours: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Youssef Allami, Alexia Michaud, Beáta Bőthe et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review and meta-analysis examined associations between attachment styles and problematic involvement in behaviours described as addictions, using peer-reviewed studies published before July 23rd, 2026. The descriptive synthesis included 251 studies, with 188 eligible for meta-analysis. Across 47 attachment-behaviour combinations, weighted mean Pearson r correlations were in the small-to-moderate range. Anxious attachment was the most consistent correlate, with stronger positive associations for problematic texting, smartphone use, and social media use; secure attachment was generally associated with lower problematic engagement.
Key findings
- The review included 251 studies in its descriptive synthesis; 188 were eligible for meta-analysis.
- Across 47 attachment-behaviour combinations, weighted mean Pearson r correlations were in the small-to-moderate range.
- Anxious attachment was the most robust correlate, with stronger positive associations for problematic texting, smartphone use, and social media use.
- Secure attachment was generally associated with lower problematic engagement; avoidant and fearful attachment showed weaker, more variable associations.
Why it matters
The findings suggest attachment patterns may help contextualise vulnerability across a broad range of problematic behaviours, while the differing association patterns caution against treating these behaviours as psychologically interchangeable. The results may inform clinical assessment and theoretical understanding, but they describe associations and do not establish that attachment styles cause problematic involvement.
What to keep in mind
The evidence synthesised is associational, so it cannot establish causal effects of attachment styles on problematic behaviours.