Avoidant by Design explores the founding psychology of the United States through the lens of attachment theory. Blending personal narrative, historical reflection, and cultural critique, this essay examines how America’s fierce independence—while brave and necessary—was never metabolized into secure interdependence. From 1776 to modern capitalism, we trace how avoidant patterns shaped not just our politics but our architecture, values, and collective nervous system. It’s a call to evolve—not by rejecting our roots, but by maturing them. For anyone questioning the systems we’ve inherited and yearning for something more relational, beautiful, and whole—this piece is for you.

Part One: The Architecture of Avoidance

christen rodgers