Attached and Apart: Attachment Styles and Self-Disclosure in Long-Distance Romantic Relationships

Abstract The primary goal of this study was to examine attachment style effects on self-disclosure, trust, satisfaction, and uncertainty levels of individuals in long-distance romantic relationships (LDRRs) who utilise technologically mediated communication channels as a primary means of daily interaction with their romantic partners. Participants (N = 211) from 27 countries who maintained committed romantic relationships (M = 3 years) with geographical separation (M = 1042 miles, Mdn = 160 miles) were surveyed. Using structural equation modelling (SEM), 7 of the 8 hypotheses were supported, showing that attachment style and self-disclosure predict relational uncertainty, trust, and relational satisfaction. In examining the distinctions between attachment styles (i.e., secure, preoccupied, fearful-avoidant, and dismissive) three models were developed and confirmed with good fit. The implications of the study suggest how both attachment style and self-disclosure influence the overall success of LDRRs.