Factors and Process of Attachment Formation to Pets: A Comparison with Products

Abstract

This paper focuses on a comparison of the factors that generate and form attachment to pets and products. Analysis of episodes with the objects showed that attachment to pets involved learning and relationship building through unpredictable behaviors, which were different from those of attachment to products. In particular, interaction was related to the differences between episodes with pets and products. In addition, the fact that seemingly negative events were acceptable and contained positive emotions was shown to contribute significantly to attachment to pets.