How insecure attachment links with romantic relationship satisfaction among young males: The mediating roles of body shame and partner objectification

Abstract

Attachment plays an invaluable role in adult romantic relationships. However, little research has investigated the psychological mechanisms of the relationship between insecure attachment and romantic relationship satisfaction, especially from a body image perspective in the male population. Based on attachment theory and objectification theory, this study examined the relationship between body shame and romantic relationship satisfaction using a serial mediation model with two mediators which were insecure attachment and partner objectification among young males. In the study, 468 heterosexual males with romantic relationship experience participated. They completed the Body Image Shame Scale, Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory-Short Form, Body Surveillance Subscale and the Relationship Assessment Scale. The results showed that insecure attachment (avoidance and anxiety) was negatively correlated with romantic relationship satisfaction, and body shame could positively predict partner objectification among heterosexual male college students. Importantly, body shame and partner objectification acted as mediators in the association only between avoidant attachment (not anxious attachment) and romantic relationship satisfaction sequentially. This study identified different pathways associated with insecure attachment types in the male population, which could help guide young people to understand factors related to developing healthy romantic relationships.