Why Some Couples Thrive and Others Break Up: The Scientific Answer

Psychiatrist Amir Levine explains why some couples succeed while others break up, based on attachment theory. He identifies four attachment styles and emphasizes that style is not fixed. A 2025 study showed the impact of childhood friendships on adult relationships. Levine proposes the CARRP model for developing secure attachment and highlights the role of everyday interactions.

New research and the opinion of psychiatrist Dr. Amir Levine from Columbia University explain why some couples build stable relationships while others break up. The key concept is attachment theory, which identifies four types: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized. Levine emphasizes that attachment style is not fixed and can change under the influence of experience and environment. A 2025 study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology with 705 participants showed that childhood friendships significantly influence future relationships. It is also noted that even one secure partner can positively affect couple dynamics but cannot fix toxic relationships. Everyday small things and repeated interactions form a sense of security. Levine proposes the CARRP model (consistency, accessibility, responsiveness, reliability, predictability) for developing secure attachment. Brain neuroplasticity allows changing fear and trust mechanisms even in adulthood. The main conclusion: attachment style is not a life sentence, and secure relationships can change the perception of intimacy and love.