Not so transitional objects: The extent to which relationships with transitional objects persist beyond childhood

Abstract

Transitional objects are frequently considered an anxiety reduction mechanism, providing comfort to children transitioning towards independence from the mother. Research extensively studied this concept, yet neglected to validity their exclusive importance to children, relying predominately on child samples. The present study aims to close this gap; studying the relevance and function of transitional objects during adulthood, using an online questionnaire focussing on the aspects identified from the existing literature. The items included were carefully adjusted from previous research to suit the sample of 80 participants who were granted full access to this survey. A notable prevalence of transitional objects from this sample instantly contradicts the prevailing belief that such items were exclusive to childhood. The findings also indicate a shift in relevance of the transitional object between childhood and adulthood, despite their continued importance. Future research should focus on the changes that occur to a relationship with a specific transitional object, perhaps by adopting a longitudinal research method.