Abstract
The overall goal of this study was to examine the factor structure of the “Experiences in Close Relationships” instrument
(Brennan et al. 1998; ECR) for assessing adult attachment among a clinical sample by conducting a series of exploratory factor analyses (EFA).
While the measure demonstrated high reliability and strong validity among the original sample of college undergraduates (Brennan
et al.), the factor structure had yet to be examined among participants involved in therapy. It is unclear if any results
obtained using the ECR extrapolate to populations other than the original sample. Our findings support the factor structure
of the ECR for assessment of attachment anxiety and avoidance among a more diverse, clinical population. Noteworthy differences
between men and women also were found in the clinical sample. Finally, clinical implications for use with clients participating
in therapy are discussed.
(Brennan et al. 1998; ECR) for assessing adult attachment among a clinical sample by conducting a series of exploratory factor analyses (EFA).
While the measure demonstrated high reliability and strong validity among the original sample of college undergraduates (Brennan
et al.), the factor structure had yet to be examined among participants involved in therapy. It is unclear if any results
obtained using the ECR extrapolate to populations other than the original sample. Our findings support the factor structure
of the ECR for assessment of attachment anxiety and avoidance among a more diverse, clinical population. Noteworthy differences
between men and women also were found in the clinical sample. Finally, clinical implications for use with clients participating
in therapy are discussed.
- Content Type Journal Article
- Pages 1-12
- DOI 10.1007/s10591-011-9142-x
- Authors
- M. L. Parker, Saint Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117, USA
- Lee N. Johnson, University of Georgia, 123 Dawson Hall, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Scott A. Ketring, Auburn University, 202 Spindle Hall, Auburn, AL 36849, USA
- Journal Contemporary Family Therapy
- Online ISSN 1573-3335
- Print ISSN 0892-2764