avoidant attachment

[əˈvɔɪdənt əˈtætʃmənt]
nounpl: avoidant attachments
apego evitativo
1. A psychological attachment style characterized by discomfort with emotional intimacy, dependency, and close relationships, often resulting in emotional distance and independence as a defense mechanism
His avoidant attachment style made it difficult for him to maintain long-term romantic relationships.
Seu estilo de apego evitativo dificultava a manutenção de relacionamentos românticos duradouros.
2. In developmental psychology, an insecure attachment pattern observed in infants and children who minimize closeness with caregivers and show little distress upon separation
The child's avoidant attachment was evident when she showed no reaction to her mother's return after separation.
O apego evitativo da criança era evidente quando ela não mostrou reação ao retorno de sua mãe após a separação.
The concept of avoidant attachment has become increasingly discussed in Brazilian and Portuguese psychology and relationship counseling circles, particularly influenced by Attachment Theory developed by John Bowlby. In both Brazil and the USA, understanding this attachment style is important in therapeutic contexts, helping individuals recognize patterns of emotional distance and work toward more secure relationships.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dismissive attachmentinsecure avoidant attachmentanxious-avoidant attachment
Antonyms / Antônimos
secure attachmentanxious attachmentpreoccupied attachment

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
apego evitativo
Most common term in psychological and academic contexts
Portugal
apego de evitação
Alternative Portuguese European form, less commonly used
Academic/Clinical Brazilian
padrão de apego inseguro-evitativo
More formal and specific psychological terminology

Related Words

attachment theorysecure attachmentanxious attachmentdisorganized attachmentemotional intimacyattachment style

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep someone at arm's length
put up emotional walls
fear of intimacy
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