The Relationship Between Love Styles and Romantic Attachment Styles in Gay Men

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between love styles and romantic attachment styles in self-identified gay men. Participants (N = 72) completed the Experiences in Close Relationships–Revised and the Love Attitudes Scale Short Form. Results indicated that all six love styles were significantly predictive of anxious and avoidant romantic attachment. A series of multiple regressions were performed using love styles as predictors of avoidant and anxious attachment styles separately. Examination of the beta weights indicated that eros and mania love styles were unique predictors of anxious and avoidant romantic attachment for the gay men in this sample. Implications for counseling are highlighted.