This master’s thesis examines the relationship between attachment characteristics and romantic jealousy among individuals in the transition to adulthood and early adulthood in Slovenia. The theoretical section first outlines the fundamental principles of attachment theory, with an emphasis on adult attachment. It then describes romantic relationships and the phenomenon of romantic jealousy as a complex emotional construct comprising cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions. Special attention is given to the impact of different attachment styles on the experience and expression of jealousy, as research indicates that individuals with a
secure attachment style tend to express jealousy constructively and manage it more effectively. In contrast, individuals with anxious or avoidant attachment styles are more likely to experience higher levels of jealousy and express it in less adaptive ways.
The empirical section is based on a quantitative study conducted on a sample of individuals in early adulthood and the transition to adulthood who are or were in romantic relationships lasting at least six months. Data were collected using the Experiences in Close Relationships— Revised Questionnaire (ECR-R; Fraley et al., 2000) to measure attachment-related anxiety and avoidance, and the Multidimensional Jealousy Scale (MJS; Pfeiffer & Wong, 1989) to assess the different dimensions of jealousy. The results revealed significant associations between attachment dimensions and components of jealousy. Individuals with higher levels of attachment anxiety reported experiencing higher levels of the cognitive component of jealousy but did not show increased levels of emotional jealousy. Similarly, individuals with higher levels of avoidance did not exhibit more behavioral jealousy. The findings did not confirm
differences in the experience or expression of jealousy based on age, relationship duration, or marital status. No significant gender differences were found for cognitive and behavioral jealousy, although women, on average, reported higher levels of emotional jealousy.
This thesis thus complements existing research on romantic relationships and attachment theory in Slovenia and provides an important foundation for social pedagogues and other
professionals working with young adults. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of emotional mechanisms in romantic relationships and support the development of professional knowledge aimed at helping individuals establish healthy, stable, and high-quality romantic
relationships.
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