Attachment theory developed by John Bowlby in the 1930s, focusing on the environmental influences on child development, differing from the internal focus of psychoanalysis.
Key Observations: Noted behavioral differences in children reflecting their attachment needs.
Bowlby’s Contributions
Emphasized the significance of mother-child interactions and separation.
Influenced by Konrad Lorenz, postulated attachment as instinctual, beyond basic needs.
Attachment Theory by Bowlby
Core Idea: Attachment bonds are innate necessities. Inconsistent bonds can lead to social, emotional, and cognitive issues.
Anxious-Avoidant Spectrum: Identified behaviors ranging from attachment anxiety to avoidance based on environmental triggers.
Mary Ainsworth’s Contributions
Developed the Strange Situation to observe child-caregiver dynamics and classify attachment styles:
Secure: Distress upon separation, easily soothed upon reunion.
Resistant: Intense distress, resists contact upon reunion.
Avoidant: No distress or interest in reunion.
Disorganized Attachment: Identified later by Mary Main, showing inconsistent behavior patterns.
Stages of Attachment (Schaffer and Emerson)
Asocial Stage (0-6 weeks): No preference for certain people, but favor humans.
Indiscriminate Stage (6 weeks - 6 months): Distinguish people, no fear of strangers.
Specific Attachment (7+ months): Separation anxiety, distress around strangers.
Multiple Attachments (10+ months): Stronger bond with primary caregiver, begins bonding with others.
Learning Relationship Skills
Early attachment impacts future relationships.
Affect regulation: Developed through caregiver interactions. Poor attachment results in emotional regulation challenges and distorted self-view.
Relationships from an Attachment Perspective
Attachment theory applies to various relationships beyond child-caregiver dynamics, including romantic relationships.
Attachment Bonds: Formed with those who fulfill basic physical and emotional needs. Loss of these bonds leads to distress.
Classification of Attachment
Secure Attachment: Trusting, emotionally attuned, comfortable with intimacy.
Insecure Attachments: Include Anxious, Avoidant, and Disorganized, defined by specific behaviors and caregiver interactions.
Influence and Future Directions
Impact on Fields: Developmental psychopathology, organizational psychology, mental health.
Research: Continues to explore attachment’s role in personal and professional settings.
Attachment theory remains pivotal in understanding human behavior and relationships.
Further Exploration
Attachment Style Quiz: Helps individuals identify their attachment style and offers insights for personal development.
Digital Workbook: Provides guidance on understanding and developing secure attachments.