Which attachment style is characterized by a lack of trust and avoidance of closeness?

The attachment style characterized by a lack of trust and avoidance of closeness is the avoidant attachment style. Individuals with this attachment type typically have experienced early relationships in which their needs for comfort and closeness were not adequately met. As a result, they develop a defensive strategy of distancing themselves from emotional connections in order to protect themselves from potential hurt or rejection.

People with avoidant attachment often appear independent and self-sufficient; they may downplay the importance of relationships and exhibit discomfort with intimacy. They tend to keep partners at arm's length and may have difficulty expressing their feelings or allowing others to see their vulnerabilities. This avoidance is a coping mechanism rooted in their upbringing, where early caregivers were inconsistent or dismissive of their emotional needs.

In contrast, secure attachment is marked by healthy, trusting relationships where individuals feel comfortable seeking closeness. Resistant attachment is characterized by a longing for closeness yet a fear of abandonment, while disorganized attachment often results from chaotic or traumatic experiences in childhood, leading to a lack of a coherent strategy for dealing with relationships.