Abstract:Although previous research has examined the link between attachment style and health-risk behaviors (HRBs), no prior studies have specifically focused on military spouses, a population uniquely impacted by deployment-related stress. This study explored how attachment-related wounds contribute to maladaptive coping strategies, manifesting as HRBs. A total of 486 military spouses who met eligibility criteria completed measures assessing attachment style, perceived stress, coping, and health-risk behaviors. Participants were categorized by attachment style, with securely attached individuals serving as the control. It was hypothesized that insecure attachment would predict greater engagement in HRBs. Additionally, perceived stress and coping were examined as potential mediators between insecure attachment subtypes (anxious-preoccupied, dismissive-avoidant, and fearful-avoidant) and HRBs. The study also explored whether spouses of enlisted service members engage in more HRBs than those married to officers. Correlational analyses revealed a significant relationship between insecure attachment and HRBs F(3,482)=2.79, p=0.04. However, perceived stress and coping did not mediate this relationship, and service member rank was not significantly associated with HRBs. These findings expand the literature by applying an attachment-based framework to military spouses. Future research should develop targeted interventions to support this population, which plays a vital role in service members’ well-being and overall mission readiness.