If you're on the relationship-side of TikTok, you probably know about attachment theory. Developed by psychiatrist John Bowlby and psychologist Mary Ainsworth in the mid-twentieth century, the theory stresses that our earliest attachments — with our parents or other caregivers — impact attachments with romantic partners throughout our life.
If you're on TikTok, you might also know Jeff Guenther aka Therapy Jeff, a licensed professional counselor boasting 2.7 million TikTok followers. Now, WhatsApp and Therapy Jeff are teaming up to share the best features for four different attachment styles: secure, avoidant, anxious, and disorganized.
Secure types might enjoy the WhatsApp messaging editing feature. Credit: WhatsApp SEE ALSO: The dating app glossary: The A to Z of terms you need to knowSecure attachment
Those who are securely attached are more likely to trust others and communicate effectively. The ability to edit WhatsApp messages could be helpful, according to Guenther, if you like to double check what you send so you're not misunderstood.
Leaving groups silently may be a favorite of avoidant types. Credit: WhatsAppWant more sex and dating stories in your inbox? Sign up for Mashable's new weekly After Dark newsletter.
Avoidant attachment
People who are avoidant may exhibit a pattern of not showing emotion and avoiding interactions as they can be too much to handle, expert Şirin Atçeken previously told Mashable. You may want to have a greater sense of control of your interactions — so Guenther recommends the feature of leaving WhatsApp groups silently.
Anxiously attached people may benefit from turning off read receipts. Credit: WhatsApp SEE ALSO: What is attachment theory and how does it impact sex and relationships?Anxious attachment
Anxious types may also exhibit a need for control; this style stems from caregivers who are critical and unpredictable. If you're anxious and, say, worry about not receiving immediate responses, Guenther advises turning off read receipts so you don't feel the need to keep checking.
Those with disorganized attachment may find the WhatsApp Hide Your Profile Photo feature useful. Credit: WhatsAppDisorganized attachment
Some people experience behaviors from both anxious and avoidant styles, Guenther said. This is known as disorganized attachment. If you exhibit this style, you might want to maintain a distance from people until you build their trust — so hiding your profile photo form certain contacts or people you don't know could be useful.
"While there is no one (attachment) style fits all, being aware of your attachment style can help you in many ways, including how you communicate with others," Guenther said. "I'd encourage you to embrace your attachment habits and hope these tips help you discover WhatsApp features that will complement your style and foster better conversations."
