The correlation between attachment style and well-being in later life could also be caused by attachment style reinforcement. Instead of encouraging a more secure attachment style in their child, parents could be "giving in to" their child's resistant or avoidant behavior. If the child does not exhibit any attachment to the parent, the parent could easily allow the child to grow up without the attachment. If the child exhibits extreme attachment, it would be easy for the parent to encourage the behavior by consistently giving in, and reinforcing the attachment. These behaviors could become consistent through various other relationships, affecting later well-being.
