Fear of Abandonment and Its Impact on Anxiety
Fear of abandonment (FOA), also known as attachment anxiety, is a common psychological phenomenon characterized by an intense fear that significant others will leave or reject them. This fear can significantly impact one's emotional well-being, particularly contributing to the onset and exacerbation of anxiety disorders.
Research suggests that FOA is strongly associated with anxiety disorders. A study by Bakermans-Kranenburg et al. (2013) found that individuals with a high fear of abandonment score had significantly higher levels of state and trait anxiety compared to those with lower scores. This heightened anxiety can manifest in various ways, including excessive worrying, restlessness, and difficulty concentrating.
The link between FOA and anxiety is thought to be mediated by several factors. Firstly, the fear of losing a loved one can trigger a stress response, releasing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which are associated with feelings of anxiety (Hankin et al., 2015). Secondly, individuals with FOA may engage in avoidant behaviors, such as clinginess or excessive reassurance seeking, to prevent abandonment. However, these behaviors can inadvertently lead to social isolation and increased anxiety due to perceived rejection (Brennan et al., 1998).
The fear of abandonment can significantly contribute to the development and maintenance of anxiety disorders. Understanding this relationship is crucial for effective psychotherapy, as interventions addressing FOA may help reduce symptoms of anxiety. It is essential for individuals struggling with FOA-related anxiety to seek professional help, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or psychopharmacological treatment, to manage their symptoms effectively.
References:
Bakermans-Kranenburg, M. J., van IJzendoorn, M. H., & Jaffe, D. (2013). The fear of loss and the attachment security spectrum: A review of theory, research, and clinical applications. Development and Psychopathology, 25(4pt2), 1379–1403.
Brennan, K., Clark, C. L., & Shaver, P. R. (1998). Anxiety sensitivity, attachment styles, and sexual inhibition in women. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 75(6), 1529–1543.
Hankin, B. L., Abramson, L. Y., Moffitt, T. E., & Silva, P. J. (2015). Developmental psychopathology in childhood and adolescence: theory, method, and findings. Guilford Press.