Abstract
This study utilized attachment theory to explore the functions of companion animals (pets) and the influence of secure human-pet bond on attachment security and emotion regulation among companion-Animal guardians (pet owners) in Hong Kong. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted exploring the relative influence of adult attachment and pet attachment on mental wellbeing, and the moderating effect of pet attachment on emotion regulation. Results revealed a consistent attachment pattern across human-human and human-pet bonds. A secure human-pet bond can act as a positive catalyst that exerts a moderating effect on emotion reappraisal. Treating pets as family members/friends helps pet owners receive the security that they lack in adult attachment. This study verified the role of pets as a "security supplement"(an additional supply of security) rather than a complete substitute for a human attachment figure. Implications for theory, service practice, and policy are discussed. Keywords
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 1-21 |
Number of pages | 21 |
Journal | Society and Animals |
Volume | 46 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2022 |
Scopus Subject Areas
- veterinary(all)
- Sociology and Political Science
User-Defined Keywords
- adult attachment
- emotion regulation
- Hong Kong pet owners
- mental wellbeing
- pet attachment