Attachment Transformation in the Context of Parental Divorce: A Qualitative Study Based on the Lived Experiences of Adolescent Girls

Neda  Mazloompour; Mohammad Masoud  Dayarian; Nayereh  Arianfar

doi:10.18502/qjcr.v24i94.20080

Neda Mazloompour PhD Student, Department of Counseling, Kho.C., Islamic Azad University, Khomeinishahr , Isfahan, Iran
Mohammad Masoud Dayarian Ph.D. in Counseling, Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling, Kho.C., Islamic Azad University, Khomeinishahr, Isfahan, Iran
Nayereh Arianfar Ph.D. in Counseling, Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling, Kho.C., Islamic Azad University, Khomeinishahr, Isfahan, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/qjcr.v24i94.20080

Keywords: Attachment transformation; Parental divorce; Lived experience; Adolescent girls; Qualitative study

Abstract

Aim: Parental divorce, as a complex family event, exerts profound effects on the attachment development of adolescent girls, making the examination of their lived experiences essential for designing effective support interventions. Accordingly, the present study aimed to explore the lived experiences of adolescent girls concerning attachment transformation within the context of parental divorce. Methods: This research was conducted using a qualitative approach and a descriptive phenomenological method. Purposeful sampling was carried out among 28 adolescent girls aged 14 to 16 who had experienced parental divorce within the past five years in Isfahan. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews (averaging 50 minutes each) and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method. The credibility of the analysis was ensured through member checking and peer review. Findings: Data analysis revealed three overarching themes: 1. Pre-divorce phase: Breakdown of secure attachment foundations characterized by emotional instability and family disruption; 2. During the turbulence of divorce: Emergence of pendular attachment marked by emotional fluctuation and loyalty conflicts; 3. Post-divorce period: Search for new attachment sources involving detachment from primary figures and a tendency toward compensatory attachments. These themes illustrate the profound impact of divorce on adolescents’ attachment relationships and emotional identity. Conclusion: The findings suggest that parental divorce initiates a multi-stage and dynamic process of attachment transformation in adolescent girls, accompanied by emotional, identity, and social challenges. The study emphasizes the need for targeted psychological interventions to strengthen emotional security and social support for this population and provides a qualitative framework for a deeper understanding of their experiences and the development of culturally adapted counseling and family support programs.