“Attached” is a written by Rachel Heller and Amir Levine. It is a deep dive into the scientific theory regarding our ability to develop adult relationships.

In the 1950’s John Bowlby, a British psychoanalyst, pioneered the adult attachment theory postulating that human beings are predisposed toward coupling. It is essential for physical and emotional well being.

Heller and Levine describe an attachment style that determines our attitudes and behaviors for interactions romantically. They review various attachment styles including secure, anxious, and avoidant.

As an example, a secure style involves a loving and supportive base so that both parties can enjoy emotional security. The authors claim that we are social creatures by nature, and having the security of a trusted partner is what actually supports independence. It is possible to determine individual attachment styles by observing behavior patterns. This understanding helps overcome the negative effects and find rewarding relationships.