Citation

Stalker CA, Davies FC. Can. J. Psychiatry 1995; 40(5): 234-240.

Affiliation

Faculty of Social Work, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ontario.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1995, Canadian Psychiatric Association, Publisher SAGE Publications)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7553541

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To explore the possible associations among attachment organization, current functioning and Axis II personality disorder. METHOD: Attachment organization was assessed using the Adult Attachment Interview in a clinical sample of 40 women with a history of childhood sexual abuse. The Global Assessment Scale yielded measures of current psychosocial functioning and the Structured Clinical Interview for Diagnosis on DSM-III-R was used to assess presence of personality disorder. RESULTS: Preoccupation with attachment issues was evident in 68% of the subjects; 60% of the subjects were unresolved in respect to loss and/or trauma; and 88% of the subjects met criteria for one or more Axis II disorders. A relationship between Borderline Personality Disorder and the Unresolved attachment classification is suggested. CONCLUSIONS: Women who have experienced childhood sexual abuse require intervention that focuses on resolution of trauma and loss and responds to individual differences in attitudes toward attachment issues.

Language: en