Individuals struggling with love addiction are in desperate need to feel emotionally connected and secure. Underlying this condition is a basic need for connection. The ground rules for seeking attention in the form of love is generally established in the attachment style formed during childhood. If individuals have a less then optimal secure attachment to their caregivers it transfers into the ability to form healthy relationships as an adult. Instead of fundamentally knowing one's self-worth the attention is directed to others to meet that need.