Understanding the need for attachment: the significance of "attachment styles" in patient care

The aim of the article was to present the main ideas of attachment theory in the context of life-threatening illness. We described the characteristic elements of distinguished attachment styles (secure, avoidant, ambivalent, and disorganized) including difficulties in communication between patients, family members, and health care practitioners. We based our work on literature on the subject: psychological studies on palliative care and experiences of work with terminally ill patients. Cited literature concerns attachment style components that are highly likely to influence physical and mental health in adults, general quality of life, and the quality of relationships between patients and medical specialists. Finally, we present recommendations based on the literature that may ameliorate the process of adaptation of patients and their families.