What kind of attachment likely formed in Shelly, who constantly seeks reassurance from her husband?

The kind of attachment that likely formed in Shelly is anxious/ambivalent attachment. This attachment style is characterized by heightened levels of anxiety in relationships, where individuals often seek excessive reassurance and validation from their partners. They may worry persistently about their partner's availability and responsiveness, leading to clingy behaviors and fear of abandonment.

In Shelly's case, her constant need for reassurance from her husband indicates that she might be experiencing insecurity and uncertainty in her relationship, which aligns with the traits associated with anxious/ambivalent attachment. This style typically develops in early childhood when caregivers are inconsistently available or responsive to the child’s needs, resulting in a lack of confidence that one’s needs will be met in adulthood as well.

Understanding this attachment style provides insight into how early experiences with caregivers can influence adult relationships, emphasizing the importance of secure bases and consistent emotional support.