Longing Levels of Men with Avoidant Attachment Style after Separation from a Meaningful Life Person

Authors

  • Alexander Alexander Master of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada
  • Felix Jonathan Kusno Bachelor of Informatics Engineering, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas IBBI

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61722/jssr.v4i6.12845

Keywords:

longing, avoidant attachment, interpersonal relationships, men, attachment theory

Abstract

Attachment theory reveals that individuals with avoidant attachment styles tend to suppress their emotions and avoid deep attachments. However, the phenomenon of longing they experience after leaving someone remains an interesting topic to research. This study aimed to explore the level of longing that men with avoidant attachment style experience after leaving an interpersonal relationship. This study utilized a quantitative approach with a cross-sectional survey design. The sample consisted of adolescents and adults (n=200), who were selected using purposive sampling technique. The research instruments included a Likert-based longing scale as well as the Attachment Style Questionnaire (ASQ). Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation test and linear regression analysis. This study found that although men with avoidant attachment style tend to avoid emotional attachment, their level of longing showed significant variation based on the intensity of the previous relationship and the length of time since separation. This study suggests the existence of an emotional paradox in the avoidant attachment style, where feelings of longing persist despite their underlying tendency to avoid attachment.

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Published

2026-09-28