Attachment behavior and its role in the psychotherapy of depression

According to attachment theory (sensu Bowlby) insecure attachment styles represent early interactional experiences. They are seen as vulnerability markers for the development of depression. Psychotherapy aims at symptom relief and at the modification of personality styles which express insecure attachment. Interventions have to take into account these patterns (ambivalent, avoidant) to prevent repetition of maladaptive circles within the therapy. The paper describes the basics of attachment theory and its consequences for the psychotherapeutic treatment of depression.