Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

Differences In Touching Behavior With Strangers And Acquaintances Based On Adult Attachment Theory And Sociability, Kaitlin Camilleri

Honors Theses

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between adult attachment style and touching behavior, as well as the relationship between sociability and touching behavior, when interacting with both strangers and acquaintances. Previous research on romantic relationships suggests that individuals with avoidant attachment styles tend to avoid touching their romantic partners, whereas individuals with anxious attachment styles over-touch their romantic partners. As well, research on personality traits suggests that individuals who are high in openness and agreeableness, both characteristics of sociable people, tend to participate in touching behavior more. In the current study, 125 participants completed the Experiences …