Presenter: Kimberly K. Lucero
Poster Description: The primary aim of this study is to focus on the negative impact of a vulnerable attachment, in relation to a respondent’s tendency to regulate their emotions. The percentage of children who suffer from vulnerable attachment issues is undocumented in the State of New Mexico. This is an issue because it is documented that the State of New Mexico has reported concerns for children who suffer from negative attachment styles (Children Youth and Families New Mexico, 2019). In addition, a mother’s bond to their child, shapes a child’s brain, which influences their self-esteem, expectations of others, and ability to attract and maintain successful relationships. The same children who grow up with attachment issues, can suffer from a variety of illnesses in their adult life. In fact; John Bowlby and Harry Harlow have conducted experimental based evidence that argues, negative attachment styles in children, can lead to the inability to regulate emotions within an individual’s emotional response system. Unfortunately, there is lack of research on vulnerable attachment issues influential to the emotional regulation system, within the State of New Mexico. To further address this issue, I will use a quantitative approach to survey adults 18+ years and older from the Northern New Mexico College. The data will be gathered anonymously by asking 5% of the total registered student population to partake in a brief survey. The survey will follow two central themes; vulnerable attachment style and emotional regulation. The outcome of this study will be used to increase awareness and educate families on healthy attachment styles.
Keywords: vulnerable attachment, attachment styles, emotional regulation, mirroring