While studies haven't yet been able to identify what specifically creates an attachment style, the consensus suggests that it is developed in early childhood. An anxious attachment style, per Healthline, was most likely developed as a result of inconsistent parenting, insensitivity, emotionally unavailability, or in some cases, simple genetics. During childhood, this attachment style can present itself in various ways, such as clingy behaviors, excessive emotionality, inappropriate interactions with strangers, and generally anxious behavior, amongst others. These early signs can manifest differently into adulthood, from low self-esteem, inability to trust others, jealousy, a need for constant reassurance, and more.
So how do these signs present themselves in relationships, and how would one deal with them? According to Mind Body Green, an anxious attachment style is based on insecurity and a fear of abandonment. "Anxiously attached people tend to be very insecure about their relationships, often worrying that their partner will leave them and thus are always hungry for validation," said Kelly Gonsalves, via the outlet. "Anxious attachment is associated with 'neediness' or clingy behavior, such as getting very anxious when your partner doesn't text back fast enough and constantly feeling like your partner doesn't care enough about you."
