Association between attachment and psychological health of first year students at the University of Limpopo

Abstract

The transition to university has been linked to social and academic stressors that trigger attachment dimensions and various psychological health problems. This study sought to assess the association between attachment and the psychological health of first year students at the University of Limpopo. The study adopted a correlational design and 233 respondents participated in the study. The association between students’ attachment and psychological health was assessed using canonical correlation. The study used the Experiences in Close Relationship Scale-Revised (ECR-R) and General Health Questionnaire - 28 (GHQ-28) to assess attachment and psychological health. The attachment dimensions measured by the ECR-R had a positive linear relationship with the subscales of the GHQ. This relation was however significant between the anxiety attachment dimension and social dysfunction subscale (r= .14, p ˂ .05), as well as the avoidance attachment dimension and depression subscale (r=.13, p˂ .05). A correlation between ECR-R and GHQ-28 was found (r = .24, p˂ .05), implying a positive relationship. Given the literature that exists linking attachment and the psychological health of students particularly first year students who are adjusting to a new university environment, it is recommended that universities should consider implementing programmes that foster social integration among students. Faculties are also encouraged to participate in programmes that support students’ transition to the academic programmes. Further, health professionals are encouraged to consider students’ attachment dimensions that may be triggered by university adjustment when providing psychological services.