Top 5 TV & Movie Characters Showing Anxious Attachment in 2025

Attachment theory explores how early bonds shape our relationships throughout life. Anxious attachment, marked by insecurity and fear of abandonment, often leads to clingy behaviors and low self-esteem. Understanding this style can improve how we connect with others.

Fictional characters offer vivid illustrations of anxious attachment, helping us recognize these patterns in real life. Here are five memorable characters from TV and movies who embody anxious attachment traits.

What Is Anxious Attachment?

Anxious attachment develops from inconsistent caregiving in childhood, causing individuals to feel uncertain about their relationships. This insecurity prompts behaviors like constant reassurance-seeking, hypervigilance to partner’s moods, and difficulty trusting others.

Experts like Dr. Katelyn Campbell highlight that anxious attachment involves persistent fear of abandonment, leading to emotional reactivity and low self-worth. Therapist Brianna Angele adds that those with this style often ruminate excessively about their relationships.

1. Donkey in Shrek

Donkey’s relentless clinginess to Shrek perfectly illustrates anxious attachment. Despite Shrek’s avoidant tendencies, Donkey persistently seeks connection. Over time, Donkey’s character growth reflects healthier attachment patterns.

2. Marlin in Finding Nemo

After a traumatic loss, Marlin’s overprotectiveness toward Nemo stems from anxious attachment. His fear of losing his son drives him to constant vigilance, showcasing how trauma can trigger this attachment style.

3. Bella in Twilight: New Moon

Bella’s extreme distress and withdrawal when Edward leaves highlight anxious attachment’s impact. Her behaviors, including dangerous hallucinations, reveal the intense fear of abandonment that defines this style.

4. Rebecca in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend

Rebecca’s obsessive pursuit of reassurance and fear of abandonment lead to self-sabotage and mental health struggles. Her journey demonstrates that with therapy, anxious attachment patterns can evolve into healthier relationships.

5. Ross in Friends

Ross’s jealousy and emotional volatility during his relationship with Rachel epitomize anxious attachment. His trauma from past relationships fuels his insecurity, but self-awareness helps him grow beyond this style.

Identifying and Healing Anxious Attachment

Recognizing anxious attachment in yourself or others is a crucial step toward healthier relationships. Understanding your emotional triggers and communication patterns can empower you to respond differently and build secure bonds.

Dr. Campbell emphasizes that awareness enables individuals to develop trust and manage conflict more effectively. Therapist Brianna Angele notes that knowing your attachment style helps you overcome fears and communicate needs authentically.

With support and intentional effort, it’s possible to transform anxious attachment into secure, fulfilling connections that reduce anxiety and promote emotional well-being.

Explore more about attachment and mental health to deepen your understanding and strengthen your relationships.

About the Author: Amy Marschall, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiverse children and adolescents. Certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and telemental health, she provides expert insights into attachment and mental health.

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