Sociology

Theories on the dynamics of romantic relationships are evidently among the most researched of all doctrines addressing interpersonal relationships. Romantic love assumes a vague meaning unless it is put to a specific context and analyzed in the light of particular case studies. The attachment theory of romantic love has emerged as one of the most relevant schools of thought. This paper is going to critically assess the attachment theory that was first conceived of by Cindy Hazan and Phillip Shaver in 1987.

Hazen and Shaver give especial emphasis on the bond of affection that gradually grows among adult lovers. This process is a continuation from the early phases of an individuals life as young children feel emotionally attached to their caregivers. Similarly, they undergo psychological suffering when detached from their caregivers (Bowlby, 1979, p.129).

Adult romantic love is just an extension of the attachment process experienced during childhood. However, the extent of the attachment and emotional affiliation to it depend on an individuals past relations (Hazen  Shaver, 1987, p.511). This theory stands apart from other relationship theories in three crucial aspects. Firstly, the attachment theory successfully justifies how the feeling of love assumes different forms within a societal setup. Secondly, the antonymous notions of healthy and unhealthy love can be accommodated within a single abstract framework by resorting to this theory. Thirdly, this theory provides a rationale for the implied correlation between psychological desolation and love (Hazen  Shaver, 1987, p.511).

However, the drawbacks of the attachment theory are worth considering as well. Firstly, the attachment theory fails to rationalize why the feeling of insecurity in the early childhood often takes positivistic turns toward increased self-confidence and self-reliance (Hazen  Shaver, 1987, p.522). In personal cases, individuals who are prone to anxiety often have disastrous past experiences that affect them adversely. What is also plausible is that they might overcome their distressful mindsets to excel in their respective professional as well as personal spheres. Hence, the absolute viability of the attachment theory is still left for open debate among scholars and researchers.