Abstract

There is a lack of studies on attachment in specific psychopathological conditions in middle childhood and early adolescence. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the attachment in 101 children, aged 8-15, 50 with a diagnosis of Somatic Symptoms Disorders (SSD) and 51 as control group, administering the Child Attachment Interview and the Children Behavior Checklist. Findings showed in SSD group higher percentages of insecure (2-ways), preoccupied (3-ways), disorganized attachment (4-ways), and higher levels of Involving Anger to caregivers than comparison group. Negative correlations between security scale and somatic complaints were found. This study might help clinicians in the SSD evaluation and treatment processes.