Love beyond genders : exploring the attachment style among lgbt students in romanctic relationships / Fatima F. Berenguela, Mary Claire Chavez, and Steven B. Orbon

Undergraduate Thesis (BHS) - Human Services Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges, 2025

Includes bibliographic references.

This qualitative research fills a gap in the literature on relational dynamics within the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender ("LGBT") community. Using phenomenology as the research method, the researchers explored the attachment styles of LGBT students in romantic relationships at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges. The study is grounded in the Attachment Theory by John Bowlby, which the researchers utilize. Twelve (12) participants underwent in-depth semi-structured interviews ensuring confidentiality and anonymity, which reflected on the secured informed consent form. Thematic analysis is utilized; the findings revealed that individuals with a secure attachment style exhibit adaptability and trust, while those with an anxious attachment style experience fear of abandonment and seek reassurance. Further, participants with an avoidant attachment style tend to avoid intimacy and value independence, whereas those with a disorganized attachment style fear closeness and display unpredictable behavior. Most of the participants were assigned female at birth and now identify themselves as bisexual or lesbian. These findings suggest important implications for counseling and relationship education by highlighting the need for customized interventions that prioritize effective communication and emotional support. Additionally, the study encourages educational institutions to develop policies that foster more inclusive and supportive environments for LGBT students.