Avoidant attachment

Avoidant attachment is a pattern marked by keeping away from closeness and by a tendency toward self-sufficiency. In this pattern a person prefers being on their own to leaning on others and often keeps a distance in the face of emotional closeness. This can be an adaptation to needs not having been sufficiently met in early relationships. A person with avoidant attachment may find closeness difficult while protecting their independence. Recognizing this pattern can help build a more flexible balance between distance and closeness.