The Yin & Yang of Belonging: A Phenomenological Study of Adult Korean Adoptees’ Attachment Styles in Romantic Relationships

Abstract Much of the extant body of adoption research focuses on children and adolescents, especially from an attachment perspective. While there is emerging research on adult attachment, very little focuses on adoptees. In this qualitative study, semi-structured interviews were used with 22 adult Korean adoptees about their experiences in romantic relationships. Thematic analysis revealed two themes. The first was emotions, with two sub-themes of avoiding conflict through peacekeeping and emotional distancing. The second theme was views of self with respect to self-esteem and self-worth. There was one sub-theme of avoiding conflict through conformity. This is the first study to qualitatively explore the experiences of adult Korean adoptees in romantic relationships using an attachment perspective. Implications for social work practice and further research are discussed.