Adult attachment, perceived suport, and depressive symptoms in Chinese and American cultures

This study examines cross-culturally how perceived support from, and satisfaction with, a current romantic partner mediates the relation between adult attachment styles and manifestations of depressive symptoms. Three hundred and sixty-seven participants from two different cultural groups, Hong Kong and the U.S.A., were recruited. We hypothesized that perceived support from, and relationship satisfaction with, the current romantic partner would mediate the link between anxious and avoidant attachment styles and depressive symptoms in both Chinese and American samples. The strength of these associations, however, was predicted to be stronger for avoidance in the more collectivistic culture (Hong Kong). The results supported these hypotheses. Implications of the findings for future research are discussed.