What Is Empathy? Definition, Importance, and Role in Building Meaningful Relationships - THINK LIKE RAMIT

Does he like you… Or is he just texting out of boredom?

One day he texts you, “I miss you ❤️…” and the next day he leaves it at seen.

Sometimes he seems so close, like you two are made for each other… And then suddenly he disappears.

Is this love… or just emotional confusion?

If you have ever found yourself entangled in this question, then maybe the key to understanding the story going on between you and him is hidden in attachment theory.

What is attachment theory?

Attachment theory is a psychological framework that explains how people connect, fear, or flee in their relationships. This theory was first proposed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth in the 1950s.

According to it, our childhood experiences determine how we feel love, closeness, and trust as adults.

How many attachment styles are there?

1. Secure Attachment

• Share emotions openly
• Bring stability in the relationship
• Neither afraid nor overly clingy

2. Anxious Attachment

• Constantly keep thinking, "Does he love me?"
• Call/text repeatedly
• Get nervous if the response is late

3. Avoidant Attachment

• Avoid emotions
• Create distance in the name of 'space.'
• Avoid in-depth conversations

4. Fearful-Avoidant/Disorganized Attachment

Want love, but are also afraid

Keep coming and going—emotionally unavailable

Why are today's relationships so complicated?

✖ Texting has reduced clarity

Short replies and emojis have replaced real conversations. Due to which the meaning is often lost.

✖ Ghosting, breadcrumbing and love bombing

Nowadays people hide more and are less honest in their relationships. This directly affects insecure people.

✖ Social media comparison

“That couple is so happy, and I am so confused”—this thought makes us more anxious.

Can your attachment style change?

Yes, absolutely!

Attachment styles can change at every stage of life—with the help of therapy, awareness, and a healthy partner.

Self-awareness is the first step.

When you know why you feel insecure, you can begin the emotionally intelligent journey to overcome it.

5 easy steps to healthy attachment

1. Identify your attachment style

Take a self-assessment test, do journaling, or talk to a therapist.

2. Talk openly to your partner

“When you reply late, I feel rejected”—such “honest talks” connect you emotionally.

3. Spend time with secure people

Get influenced by people who are emotionally stable. These people will help you see relationships in the right light.

4. Identify designer emotions

Not every “I love you” is sincere. Understand the pattern in yourself and others.

5. Do not ignore therapy

Relationship counseling or individual therapy helps to break many emotional loops.

Conclusion: Love is not entangled; we ourselves are entangled

The more digital the relationships have become these days, the more disturbed they are.

Sometimes we feel that the other person is toxic, but in reality—both of us are just fighting with each other with our own attachment wounds.

If you understand yourself, your fears, and your attachment style… then love can become a safe journey and not an unsafe battle.

If you liked this blog, please share it and comment below—what is your attachment style?