The abstract quality of clinging or adhering; the state or characteristic of being inclined to cling.
From 'clinging' (present participle of 'cling') plus the abstract noun suffix '-ness', creating a noun form of the verb's continuous aspect.
This is a rare word that combines a gerund with an abstract suffix—it's the kind of linguistic construction that English allows but rarely uses, making it a favorite of philosophers discussing the nature of attachment!
Nominalized form doubles down on stereotyping by making it a quality of being. Rarely used but when invoked, carries heavy gendered baggage.
Do not use; opt for behavioral descriptions.
["attachment-seeking tendency","reassurance-seeking pattern"]
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