ECR-RECR-R: Attachment Style Test

Attachment theory was developed by John Bowlby in the 1950s-60s and expanded by Mary Ainsworth. It explains how early relationships with parents shape patterns of closeness in adult life. Research shows that attachment styles influence the quality of romantic relationships, ways of coping with stress, and emotional regulation.

ECR-R identifies 4 types based on two dimensions: Secure type (low anxiety + low avoidance) — comfort with closeness and independence. Anxious-preoccupied (high anxiety + low avoidance) — strong need for closeness, fear of rejection. Dismissive-avoidant (low anxiety + high avoidance) — values independence, avoids closeness. Fearful-avoidant (high anxiety + high avoidance) — desires closeness but fears it.

ECR-R was created using Item Response Theory (IRT), which allowed selecting items with the best psychometric properties from the same question pool. In practice, both versions yield comparable results, but ECR-R provides more reliable measurement, especially at the "secure" end of the spectrum.

Yes! Although attachment style is relatively stable, it can change through significant relationships, psychotherapy, and conscious self-work. Research shows that about 30% of people change their attachment style over several years. Understanding your style is the first step to change.

Results are presented as scores on two scales (anxiety and avoidance), each from 1 to 7. Low scores (< 3) indicate security in that dimension. Scores 3-4.5 — moderate level. High scores (> 4.5) — pronounced anxiety or avoidance. Attachment type is determined by the combination of these scores.

Yes! ECR-R instructions ask you to respond about how you usually feel in close relationships — not just current ones. This allows assessing your general attachment style based on past experience and relationship expectations.