Abstract
This study examined the relation between internal working models of attachment and assumed-competence types. Both constructs consist of two dimensions: self and others. Participants were 613 undergraduate students who completed the Assumed-Competence Scale and the Experiences in Close Relationships, Assumed-Competence Scale, and Self-Esteem Scale. Correlation analyses revealed that the dimensions for the self of the attachment models and the assumed-competence types (i.e., “anxiety” and self-esteem type) were negatively correlated, but the dimension for others (i.e., “avoidance” and the tendency to undervalue others) showed a weak correlation. Regarding internal attachment models, the securely attached participants were more often classified as higher self-esteem types, and less often as atrophy and assumption types, of assumed-competence. The preoccupied participants were more often classified as atrophy types, and less often as self-esteem types, of assumed-competence. The fearful-avoidant participants were more often classified as assumption types, and less often as self-esteem types, of assumed-competence. These results suggest that the internal attachment models and the assumed-competence types, especially for the dimensions of self, correspond with each other. The convergence and discrimination of the internal working models of attachment and assumed-competence types are discussed.
