The relationships among interpersonal problem solving behaviors, adult attachment patterns, and psychological symptoms

Objective: This study aimed at examining the relations among adult attachment patterns, interpersonal problem solving behaviors, and psychological symptoms. Moreover, the study intended to test the mediating role of interpersonal problem solving behaviors on the relationship between attachment and psychological symptoms. Methods: In accordance with this purpose, 'Experiences in Close Relationships Inventory', 'Interpersonal Problem Solving Inventory', and 'Brief Symptom Inventory' had been administered to 458 Hacettepe University undergraduate students. Results: Results showed that the anxious attachment styles had effects on ineffective interpersonal problem solving behaviors; and the avoidant attachment styles not only had effects on lacking of self-confidence and unwillingness to take responsibility in interpersonal problem solving situations but also had negative effects on effective problem solving behaviors. Moreover, it's seen that both avoidant and anxious attachment styles and approaching problems in a negative way and lacking of self-confidence from ineffective problem solving behaviors had effects on psychological symptoms. Last of all, the mediating role of lacking of self-confidence between avoidant attachment patterns and psychological symptoms, and the mediating roles of approaching problems in a negative way and lacking of self-confidence between anxious attachment patterns and psychological symptoms had been supported. Discussion: Based on these results, the importance of striving to replace insecure attachment patterns with secure patterns and development of effective problem solving skills in the therapies of clients with interpersonal relationship problems or psychological symptoms had been emphasized.