This talk presents the findings of a series of studies exploring the links between olfactory ability, experiences of partner body odours and attachment styles in romantic relationships. Specifically, we explored whether attachment style predicts experiences of a partner’s body odour and sexual disgust sensitivity and whether olfactory ability and experiences of partner body odours were related to attachment style and relationship intimacy and commitment. The broad findings across these studies indicated that poorer olfactory ability was associated with attachment insecurity, avoidant attachment styles were associated with higher disgust towards partner body odours and higher sexual disgust, and that exposure to partner body odours may be associated with stronger relationship commitment.
This talk presents the findings of a series of studies exploring the links between olfactory ability, experiences of partner body odours and attachment styles in romantic relationships. Specifically, we explored whether attachment style predicts experiences of a partner’s body odour and sexual disgust sensitivity and whether olfactory ability and experiences of partner body odours were related to attachment style and relationship intimacy and commitment. The broad findings across these studies indicated that poorer olfactory ability was associated with attachment insecurity, avoidant attachment styles were associated with higher disgust towards partner body odours and higher sexual disgust, and that exposure to partner body odours may be associated with stronger relationship commitment.