What is anxious attachment style in dating?

Anxious attachment is a (very overly used) term to describe a specific style of attachment in relationships. People with anxious attachment tend to crave closeness and intimacy in their relationships but often feel insecure about their partner's feelings and their own worthiness of love and affection. This insecurity can lead to a constant need for reassurance and fear of abandonment. In dating, someone with an anxious attachment style might exhibit certain behaviors that stem from their underlying fears and insecurities. For example, they may: Seek constant validation: They might constantly seek reassurance from their partner about their feelings and the status of the relationship, often needing to hear "I love you" or "I won't leave you" repeatedly. Fear rejection: They may be hypersensitive to any signs of rejection or criticism from their partner, which can lead to overreacting or becoming overly defensive in situations that trigger these fears. Overanalyze communication: Anxiously attached individuals may overanalyze text messages, phone calls, or interactions with their partner, looking for hidden meanings or signs that their partner may be losing interest. Become overly dependent: They might rely heavily on their partner for emotional support and validation, feeling lost or incomplete when their partner is not available or responsive. Sacrifice personal boundaries: In their pursuit of maintaining closeness, they may sacrifice their own needs and boundaries, often putting their partner's needs ahead of their own. It's important to note that having an anxious attachment style doesn't mean that someone is incapable of having healthy relationships. With self-awareness, communication, and perhaps therapy, individuals with anxious attachment can learn to manage their insecurities and develop more secure and fulfilling relationships. In dating, partners of someone with an anxious attachment style can offer understanding, patience, and consistent reassurance to help alleviate their fears and build trust over time. Want to learn more? Check out Do the Work podcast!