City Research Online

Abstract

Objective: This study tested an integrated model combining Attachment Theory and the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) to examine how parents’ interpersonal functioning relates to sociocognitive factors linked to intentions to disclose donor conception to their child.
Background: Although early disclosure of donor conception is associated with positive psychological outcomes for donor-conceived offspring and overall family relations, disclosure practices vary among heterosexual parents. Emotional, relational, and sociocognitive factors are known to influence decisions; however, these factors have not been examined within a comprehensive framework. Additionally, limited data regarding the Italian context – with its distinctive legal and cultural backdrop surrounding gamete donation – are currently available.

Method: 159 heterosexual Italian parents who conceived through gamete donation completed an anonymous survey. Standardised measures included the TPB–Disclosure Questionnaire, the Experiences in Close Relationships–Revised, and the Dyadic Adjustment Scale. Path analysis was conducted to test the hypothesised model.

Results: Attachment anxiety was indirectly associated with lower disclosure intentions through more negative attitudes towards disclosure. Dyadic adjustment was positively associated with subjective norms. Attitudes and subjective norms, but not perceived behavioural control, were significantly associated with intentions to disclose.

Conclusion: Findings highlight the importance of individual relational patterns and couple dynamics in shaping parents’ cognitive evaluations and intentions regarding openness about donor conception.

Implications: Interventions to promote disclosure may benefit from targeting attachment-related relational functioning, strengthening couple communication, and fostering supportive attitudes and subjective norms around openness. Contextual and sociocultural implications are discussed.

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© 2026 Wiley. This is the accepted manuscript of an article published by Wiley. Please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions for information on re-use.
Publisher Keywords:	Disclosure; Donor-Conceived Families; Donor Conception; Gamete Donation; Attachment; Theory of Planned Behaviour.
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences School of Health & Medical Sciences > Department of Psychology & Neuroscience
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

Export

Downloads