Comparing attachment patterns from late childhood to adolescence: A cross-cohort study using latent profile similarity analysis

Within the framework of prototype and revisionist models of attachment, the present study initiated an exploratory effort to examine the commonalities and differences in patterns of perceived attachment experiences-incorporating child-father, child-mother, and peer attachments-and their associations with self-esteem, self-control, and prosocial behavior across three school-aged cohorts (elementary, middle, and high school). Data were collected from 1,646 Chinese youth (Mage = 11.90; 48% girls) in November 2021 and May 2023. Latent profile analyses were conducted within each cohort, followed by the latent profile similarity analysis that enables a systematic examination of multiple levels of (dis)similarity in attachment profile across the cohorts. Results indicated that (1) the elementary and middle school cohorts demonstrated configural, structural, and dispersion similarity, yet distributional similarity was not supported; (2) the high school cohort exhibited configural differences relative to the two younger groups; and (3) explanatory similarity was established between the elementary and middle school cohorts. The findings suggest both convergence and divergence in perceived attachment patterns from late childhood to mid-late adolescence. The study, although cross-sectional, contributes novel pattern-level evidence relevant to advancing the understanding of the dynamic nature of attachment and further substantiating the significance of secure attachment for youths' psychosocial functioning.