Attachment Styles in Midlife: How They Shape Relationships, Parenting & Work

In this candid episode of Holistic Dose, hosts Tiffany and Jeanette sit down with licensed therapist Dr. Tavari Brown to unpack the complex world of attachment theory—and how it shows up not only in childhood but also in midlife, parenting, friendships, and the workplace.

From John Bowlby’s foundational research to Mary Ainsworth’s “strange situation” studies, Dr. Brown explains the origins of secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles. Together, they explore how these early patterns play out in adulthood, especially during life transitions like divorce, burnout, reinvention, and parenting challenges.


Whether you’ve wondered why you crave reassurance, avoid closeness, or struggle with codependency, this episode offers practical tools for building healthier, more secure relationships.

Key Topics Covered
• The history of attachment theory — Bowlby, Ainsworth, and beyond
• How early caregiver dynamics shape attachment styles
• Can attachment styles change in adulthood (and how)?
• The link between attachment and love languages
• Parenting after divorce & anxious attachment in children
• How attachment shows up in the workplace and friendships
• Practical steps to move toward secure attachment
• Red flags vs. green flags in relationships
• Reflections on the Netflix documentary Unknown Number: The High School Catfish and real-world implications


Guest
Dr. Tavari Brown – Licensed therapist and relationship expert helping individuals and couples understand their attachment patterns, love languages, and emotional needs.

Hosts • Tiffany – Life coach, co-host of Holistic Dose • Jeanette – Divorce attorney & co-host of Holistic Dose

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