Abstract

This study examined attachment, coherence, and self-disclosure as predictors of intimacy in adolescent friendships as well as the extent to which coherence and disclosure mediate the relationship between attachment and intimacy. Gender and grade level effects on intimacy development were also examined
for one hundred ninety-six seventh, eighth and ninth grade students (116 boys and 80 girls). Attachment, coherence, and disclosure strongly predicted intimacy. Self-disclosure and coherence also interacted to influence intimacy where a tendency toward self-disclosure contributes to intimacy to a greater extent at low (when compared to high) levels of coherence. Structural Equation Modeling indicated that only coherence and self-disclosure had a direct effect on intimacy. Avoidant and anxious attachment had an indirect affect on
intimacy, and were mediated by coherence and disclosure. Clinical implications of the results are discussed.

Journal of Social and Personal Relationship, 25(3): 409–428. DOI: 10.1177/0265407508090866