Attachment and sleep quality in adults: A multilevel meta-analysis of actor and partner effect

Abstract

Within the context of sleep, attachment is hypothesized to play a central role in regulating bedtime affect and arousal. While previous studies have suggested a link between attachment and sleep quality, a meta-analysis specifically examining this association in adults has been lacking. To address this gap, we conducted a meta-analysis of 28 studies on this topic. Our findings indicate a correlation between attachment anxiety and both an individual's own sleep quality (r = −0.16, P < 0.001) and their partner's sleep quality (r = −0.10, P < 0.05). There is also a negative correlation between attachment avoidance and an individual's own sleep quality (r = −0.15, P < 0.001) as well as their partner's sleep quality (r = −0.16, P < 0.01). Additionally, the relationships were moderated by several variables, such as age and sleep measurement method. Furthermore, we analyzed the associations between attachment dimensions and sleep quality related index. The results indicate that attachment anxiety is associated with poorer subjective sleep quality (PSQI) (r = −0.23, p < 0.001), longer sleep latency (r = −0.10, p < 0.05), increased wakefulness after sleep onset (r = −0.09, p < 0.05), and greater daytime sleepiness (r = −0.20, p < 0.01). Attachment avoidance is associated with poorer self-reported sleep quality (PSQI) (r = −0.16, p < 0.001), longer time to fall asleep (r = −0.15, p < 0.05), and increased daytime sleepiness (r = −0.15, p < 0.05). In summary, our results support the association between attachment insecurity and poorer sleep quality in both individuals and their partners. These findings hold important implications for future interventions aimed at improving sleep quality by addressing attachment-related concerns.