Substance misuse: the relationship between attachment styles, personality traits and coping in drug and non-drug users

This study examined an individual's drug use in relation to their coping styles, personality traits and attachment style. A total of 98 participants (46 females and 52 males) took part in the study. Analysis did not show a significant difference in insecure/ambivalent attachment in the drug-using group. Yet, there was evidence to suggest that the drug -using group exhibited higher levels of personality disorder traits, based only on self-report. Individuals with more personality disorder traits had a more insecure attachment style. Participants who use drugs had a more avoidant coping style. The results are discussed with reference to previous research and the implications of the current research on attachment theory and personality disorder etiology, as well as implications for drug treatment.