Purpose
To provide a brief review of the empirical literature regarding the attachment style of the cancer patients’ caregivers as well as the link between attachment, caregiving, and care-receiving behaviors are defined.
Methods
An extensive systematic electronic review (Medline, PsycINFO, and Attachment Theory Website (ATW)) and subsequent examination of reference lists were carried out to retrieve published articles up to 2011, using attachment and cancer in combination with caregiver, spouse, dyad, and family as the key words. The titles, abstracts, or full articles, if necessary, were reviewed to determine whether the articles met the eligibility criteria.
Results
Eighty-seven studies have been identified, including research articles, books, and chapters in books.
Conclusions
The attachment style of a caregiver can influence how they respond to a patient’s needs. Studies have found that attachment anxiety or avoidance is more likely to interfere with effective and sensitive caregiving.