Predicting Jealous Responses: The Influence of Adult Attachment and Depression on Threat Appraisal

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Abstract
This study tested a model of romantic jealousy based on cognitive motivational theory (White & Mullen, 1989) and formulations from adult attachment studies (Hazan & Shaver, 1987). A causal model was tested in which attachment, depression and situational threat were hypothesized to predict jealous responses through their effects on appraisal of threat. Imagery scenes, depicting varying levels of threat by a romantic relationship rival, were presented to 135 undergraduates. The model fit the data very well. Threat appraisal was predicted by attachment, depression and level of situational threat. Appraisal, in turn, predicted positive and negative relationship perceptions and emotions reported in response to jealousy-evoking situations. Results were interpreted as suggesting that attachment style and depression indirectly influence affective and cognitive responses to jealousy-evoking situations by functioning as schemas which influence the appraisal of a rival relationship. Insecure attachment and depression were also found to be related to less effective coping strategies. Findings regarding depression and ineffective coping suggested implications for the personal and relationship adjustment of persons with secure and insecure attachment.

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