Attachment and emotional regulation: examining the role of prefrontal cortex functions, executive functions, and mindfulness in their relationship - PubMed

This study investigates the relationships between attachment styles, prefrontal cortex functions, executive functions, and mindfulness in predicting emotional regulation. Analyzing data from 539 college students, the researchers found that attachment is the strongest predictor of emotional regulation, with trait mindfulness and prefrontal cortex functions serving as key mediators. While secure and insecure attachment styles showed opposing correlations with emotional regulation difficulties, executive functions did not significantly predict these difficulties despite their relationship with attachment. The findings support an interpersonal neurobiology approach to understanding socioemotional resources.