Understanding the relationship Attachment styles, Perceived Social support, Breakup distress with Coping strategies in Young Adults after a Romantic Breakup

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the relationships among attachment styles,perceived social support, breakup distress and coping strategies while also exploring an individual's lived experiences after a romantic breakup. A mixed-method design was used. The quantitative phase included 115 participants aged 18–25 years who had experienced a breakup within the past 24 months, while 15 participants were selected for qualitative analysis. Standardized measures were used to assess attachment styles, breakup distress, perceived social support and coping strategies and data was analyzed using correlational techniques. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.The findings indicated that breakup distress was positively related with both adaptive and maladaptive coping strategies, specifically, strong relationships observed with avoidant coping. Anxious attachment was significantly positive associated with higher distress and maladaptive coping, contrarily avoidant attachment showed no-significant associations. Perceived social support was negatively associated with distress and maladaptive coping, highlighting its protective role. Qualitative findings showcased that coping is a dynamic process, with individuals firstly engaging in maladaptive strategies such as emotional suppression and avoidance, followed by a gradual shift toward adaptive coping, including goal-directed cognitive reframing. and behavior.Over time, participants reported experiences of personal growth increased emotional resilience and identity reconstruction. The results portray the importance of promoting adaptive coping and strengthening perceived social support to facilitate psychological recovery among young adults.