Studies illustrate an increased frequency of AO use in individuals with more depressive symptoms, in addition to clinical populations (borderline personality disorder). Attachment to objects may indicate psychological distress, or a means by which individuals cope with psychological distress and even help reduce distress, by helping process anxieties and concerns. 

Syracuse University

A term coined by John Bowlby to refer to the specific objects that sustain comfort and emotional need for an individual. Research suggests AO function as maternal substitutions or providers of comfort and security through reduction of separation anxiety. 

Attachment objects (AO)

Lee, A., & Hood, B. (2021). The origins and development of attachment object behaviour. Current Opinion in Psychology, 39, 72–75. https://doi-org.libezproxy2.syr.edu/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.07.023

The origins and development of attachment object behaviour

At the core of the value placed on objects is a preference for the unique individual and may appear as a consequence for attributing property to specific people. 

Ex. Studies have found correlations between the worth an individual attributes to an object with the level of sentimental significance or importance of the individual who owns it.  
Suggests a connection between significance of an object and the individual related to it, which therefore may act as a heuristic to distinguish material possessions as an extension of self-identity. 



Learn Before

Related