Attachment Inventory

How you learned to connect with caregivers as a child shapes how you connect—with others and yourself—as an adult.

Understanding Attachment

Attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby and expanded by Mary Ainsworth, describes the bond between children and their primary caregivers. This early bond becomes a template for all future relationships.

The Four Attachment Styles

Secure Attachment

• Caregivers were consistently responsive and attuned
• You feel comfortable with intimacy and independence
• You can regulate emotions effectively

Anxious Attachment

• Caregivers were inconsistent—sometimes available, sometimes not
• You may fear abandonment and seek constant reassurance
• Strong emotions can feel overwhelming

Avoidant Attachment

• Caregivers were emotionally unavailable or dismissive
• You may struggle with intimacy and prefer independence
• Emotions may feel uncomfortable or unnecessary

Disorganized Attachment

• Caregivers were frightening or unpredictable
• You may have conflicting desires for closeness and distance
• Relationships can feel chaotic or confusing

Reflection Questions

1. How would you describe your early caregiving environment?
2. What did you learn about expressing needs and emotions?
3. How do these early patterns show up in your adult relationships?
4. What attachment style resonates most with your experience?

The Path Forward

Attachment patterns are not destiny. With awareness and consistent effort, you can develop "earned secure attachment"—security that comes from doing the inner work rather than from perfect early experiences.

This is what Mind Sentry is designed to support.