Perceptions of childhood as indicators of early attachment deficits among individuals with a history of violent crime

Abstract

This qualitative study utilizing constructivist grounded theory, explores the potential effects of insecure attachment on the development of violent behaviors in adulthood. A negative case analysis is used to analyze intervening variables between style of attachment security and violence or non-violence. Findings suggest bipolar disorder as a mediator of secure attachment, and distortion of the internal working model in those with insecure attachment and violent histories.