Attachments, trauma, and COVID-19: Implications for leaders, groups, and social justice.

Abstract

Objective: The present article applies attachment theory to understand the impact of COVID-19 on social inequities, discrimination, and oppression of people based on their different group identities (e.g., race, class, ability, gender, faith). Method: Theory and research was reviewed in the area social and clinical psychology. The link between attachment and outgroup behavior, transgenerational trauma, and group leadership was discussed. After careful review of the literature, the link between attachment, trauma, epistemic trust, and reflective functioning, at the individual and group level was explored. Results: During the pandemic, individuals were more inclined to rely on their group identities and vulnerable to devalue out-groups. They were more at risk of experiencing traumatic reactions that can compromise their ability to tolerate conflict in groups. However, group interventions were still an important resource during this challenging time. Conclusion: The author recommends more research and attention on facilitating secure attachments, training group leaders, addressing transgenerational trauma in groups, promoting the use of group interventions, and increasing efforts toward social justice.