Bindungsrelevante Situationen in der Psychotherapie

Background

The therapeutic relationship is a central factor for psychotherapy, which may be at least partially explained by attachment theory. However, research concerning the conditions under which attachment-related needs are activated in treatment followed by possibly dysfunctional coping strategies is rare.

Patients and methods

Semi-structured interviews on attachment-related situations in psychotherapies were conducted with 36 inpatients and then rated with regard to content.

Results

Triggers for attachment-related needs in therapies were interpersonal conflict and loss, beginning and end of therapy, symptom burden, specific interventions, addressing the therapeutic relationship and change of setting from outpatient to inpatient treatment. This was related to themes of desire for help and support, experience of rejection, self-disclosure and desire for understanding.

Conclusions

The attachment system is activated in therapies similar to other interpersonal situations. The results may help to become more sensitive to attachment-related situations and needs.