Toronto, Canada—Are all single people insecure? The rise of singlehood around the world has sparked questions about the insecurities that may plague those who remain unattached for extended periods. However, new research published in the Journal of Personality suggests that long-term single individuals can indeed thrive and be secure in their status. A crucial factor influencing an individual’s experience with singlehood seems to be their attachment style.
In Canada, the number of young adults aged 25 to 29 who are single has increased significantly over the years, from 32% in 1981 to 61% in 2021. This rise in single status is evident in the increasing number of people living solo, from 1.7 million in 1981 to 4.4 million in 2021. People remain single for a variety of reasons, including personal choice, focus on personal goals, challenges in dating, or relationship breakdowns.
Attachment theory plays a significant role in understanding the behaviors and experiences of single individuals. This theory highlights how individuals form relationships based on their levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance. Securely attached individuals are comfortable with intimacy and closeness, while insecure attachment can lead to difficulties in relationships.
Researchers have identified distinct subgroups of single individuals based on their attachment styles. These subgroups include secure singles, anxious singles, avoidant singles, and fearful singles. Each subgroup exhibits unique behaviors and outcomes, with secure singles generally thriving and reporting higher levels of satisfaction in various aspects of their lives compared to those who are insecurely attached.
The findings from the research suggest that while the majority of single individuals may experience some level of insecurity in their attachments, a significant portion can be both secure and thriving. Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that attachment orientations are not fixed and can change over time in response to various life events. Nurture from close relationships and feeling loved and cared for by others can also play a crucial role in fostering attachment security among single individuals.