ATTACHMENT STYLES AND PARENTAL INFIDELITY: AN EXPLORATION ON THE LIVED EXPERIENCES IN PARENTAL INFIDELITY OF FIRST YEAR COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

Growing up in a household affected by parental infidelity can lead children to experience emotional confusion, resentment, and insecurity. These early experiences can significantly shape their attachment styles, the emotional patterns that influence how individuals form and maintain relationships throughout their lives. This study investigated the impact of parental infidelity on the attachment styles and emotional well-being of 50 first-year students at Bestlink College of the Philippines. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, using purposive sampling to select participants. Data were gathered through a researcher-developed questionnaire focused on experiences of parental infidelity and the standardized Adult Attachment Questionnaire (AAQ) by Simpson et al. (1998). Statistical analyses, including percentage, frequency, and weighted mean, were utilized to interpret the findings. The study revealed that 28% of the respondents came from separated families, while 40% had experienced paternal infidelity. In terms of lived experiences related to parental infidelity, the average weighted mean was 3.10, interpreted as “Agree,” indicating a general acknowledgment of its emotional impact. Based on the Adult Attachment Questionnaire (AAQ), Avoidant Attachment emerged as the most prominent style, with a frequency rate of 35.2%. The weighted mean scores for various attachment styles ranged from 3.58 to 4.56, all falling within the “Neutral” interpretation, suggesting moderate tendencies without strong attachment extremes. The study revealed that the majority of participants demonstrated avoidant attachment styles, likely influenced by their experiences with parental infidelity. Others showed neutral responses, indicating underlying difficulties in forming emotional intimacy and establishing trust. To address these emotional and psychological challenges, an intervention program titled "Developing Secure Attachment Styles among Students Affected by Parental Infidelity" was proposed. This program aims to foster healthier emotional coping strategies, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and support the development of secure attachment in affected students.