A Research Thesis on Early Attachment Styles and Selected Demographic Factors as Determinants of Communication Styles of young adults Romantic Relationships in Arada Subcity, Addis Ababa
| dc.contributor.advisor | Daniel Tefera | |
| dc.contributor.author | Lidiya Sileshi | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-06-26T13:40:30Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-06-26T13:40:30Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025-10 | |
| dc.description.abstract | This study explored how early attachment experiences influence communication patterns in romantic relationships among young adults in Arada Subcity, Addis Ababa. Guided by attachment theory, which suggested that caregiver bonds shape later social and emotional development, the research examined the link between early attachment styles and communication behaviors in intimate partnerships. A cross-sectional design was applied with 424 participants selected through stratified random sampling. Attachment styles were measured using the Experiences in Close Relationships-Revised (ECR-R), while communication tendencies were assessed through the Communication Styles Questionnaire (CSQ). Analyses included descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multinomial logistic regression. Findings indicated that secure attachment was most prevalent, followed by anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant patterns. Assertive communication emerged as the dominant style, though passive, aggressive, and passive-aggressive tendencies were also observed. Results demonstrated a significant association between attachment and communication styles, with regression analysis confirming that attachment style remained a significant predictor even when sex and age were controlled. Securely attached individuals were more likely to communicate assertively, while insecure attachment styles were linked with maladaptive patterns. These outcomes reinforce the central premise of attachment theory and underscore the enduring impact of early relational experiences on adult intimacy. The study suggested practical applications for relationship counseling, youth-focused education, and psychological interventions aimed at enhancing communication and relational outcomes among young adults. By illuminating the pathways between attachment and communication, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how early bonds shape relational dynamics in emerging adulthood. Keywords: Attachment styles, communication styles, young adults, romantic relationships, assertiveness, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/8574 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Addis Ababa University | |
| dc.subject | Attachment styles | |
| dc.subject | communication styles | |
| dc.subject | young adults | |
| dc.subject | romantic relationships | |
| dc.subject | assertiveness | |
| dc.subject | Addis Ababa | |
| dc.subject | Ethiopia | |
| dc.title | A Research Thesis on Early Attachment Styles and Selected Demographic Factors as Determinants of Communication Styles of young adults Romantic Relationships in Arada Subcity, Addis Ababa | |
| dc.type | Thesis |