The reciprocal relationship between early adolescent attachment and internalizing and externalizing problem behaviour

The aim of the present study is to examine the reciprocal relationship between parental attachment and adolescent internalizing and externalizing problem behaviour. In this longitudinal study, 288 adolescents (mean age 13.5 years) reported on their attachment relationships with their parents and on problem behaviour three times, with 1-year-intervals between measurement waves. Results show that attachment and both indicators of adolescent problem behaviour remain stable over time, although there were differences in stability between constructs. Reciprocal negative effects were found between attachment and internalizing problem behaviour, and between attachment and externalizing problem behaviour.