Investigating the Moderating Role of Reflective Capacity in the Link between Attachment Security and Personal Resilience in Young Adults

Abstract

Previous research suggested that reflective capacity could help mothers who suffered from childhood deprivation better manage the challenging task of parenting and form secure bonding with their infants. The purpose of this present study was to examine whether reflective capacity might act as protective factor in assisting young adults, especially those with more insecure attachment styles (i.e., dismissing, preoccupied, and fearful), to better cope with challenges in life. The results of this study revealed moderate correlations between attachment security and personal resilience as well as between reflective capacity and personal resilience in the young adult population. Although the data in the current study disconfirmed the proposed model of reflective capacity as a moderator in the link between attachment security and personal resilience, they appeared to support the model of reflective capacity as a mediator in the relation between attachment security and personal resilience.