Abstract
Objective:
The objective of this study is to examine the relations between mental representation of attachment and interpersonal expectations of preschool children. The most distinguishing novelty of the study is defining the relevant constructs at “life scripts level". “Secure base scripts” and “interpersonal scripts” are used to measure attachment patterns and interpersonal expectations respectively.
Method:
Participants of the study is composed of 41 (18 females, 23 males) preschool children (age; mean=5.52 ve SD=.47), selected randomly from two different nursery schools in Ankara. Secure Base Script, related to attachment representation is measured by Doll Story Completion Task and interpersonal expectations are measured by Interpersonal Scripts Questionnaire for Children.
Results:
2 (gender: male and female) X 2 (Attachment Style; Secure and Insecure) Multifactorial Variance Analysis is used for the analysis of data. The results indicate that there are significant differences between secure and insecure children in the three domains of interpersonal expectations (Friendleness, Hostality and Submission). Gender does not play a significant role in any of the domains of interpersonal expectations.
Discussion:
Results indicate that attachment representation have important effects on interpersonal expectations. Moreover, secure attachment representation increases the interpersonal expectations positively, and it may serve as a protective factor for psychological well-being.
Keywords: Interpersonal, attachment, script, preschool children
