The Relative Contributions of Parent Attachment Vs. Peer Attachment in Emerging Adulthood

Although emerging adulthood (ages 18-25) is characterized by a transition to independence, many emerging adults still rely on parents for financial and emotional support. This is particularly true for college students who show increasing emotional reliance and relatedness to parents despite increased physical distance. This study will examine the relative contributions of attachment to parents and attachment to peers to coping and anxiety in emerging adulthood. Attachment to parents is expected to have a more significant contribution on coping and anxiety in emerging adults. Approximately 50 participants will complete questionnaires measuring attachment to parents and peers, symptoms of anxiety, and coping with stress in college relationships. Results will be analyzed using hierarchal linear regression. This research will shed light on the relative importance of parents versus peers for college students’ responses and stress and wellbeing.