Different core beliefs predict paternal and maternal attachment representations in young women

Core beliefs about the self are hypothesized to be rooted in early interpersonal experiences, particularly with one's family (Young, 1999). This study aimed to assess the relationship between reports of core beliefs and current parental attachment in young women. Two hundred and six young women completed self-report questionnaires to ascertain their cognitive representations of their current attachment to parents (Parental Attachment Questionnaire: Kenny, 1987) and core beliefs (Young Schema Questionnaire: Young, 1998). Regression analyses revealed different predictors of maternal and paternal attachment functioning. Disconnection and rejection beliefs predicted young women's current attachment to their father, whereas the quality of current maternal attachment was predicted by a wider range of dysfunctional beliefs, including disconnection and rejection, impaired autonomy and performance, and impaired limits. The implications of these findings for understanding the relationship between core beliefs and attachment are discussed.