Mary Ainsworth, attachment theory

What is Mary Ainsworth known for?

Mary Ainsworth is known for her work in developmental psychology, particularly her research on attachment theory.

What is attachment theory?

Attachment theory explains the dynamics of long-term relationships between humans, particularly focusing on the bonds between children and their caregivers.

What is the Strange Situation procedure?

The Strange Situation is a standardized procedure developed by Ainsworth to assess attachment styles in infants.

What are the four attachment styles identified by Ainsworth?

The four attachment styles are secure attachment, anxious-resistant attachment, anxious-avoidant attachment, and disorganized attachment.

What characterizes secure attachment?

Secure attachment is characterized by a strong emotional bond and a child’s ability to seek comfort from their caregiver.

What is anxious-resistant attachment?

Anxious-resistant attachment is characterized by intense distress when separated from the caregiver and ambivalence upon reunion.

What does anxious-avoidant attachment look like?

Anxious-avoidant attachment is characterized by avoidance of the caregiver, showing little emotion during separation or reunion.

What is the hallmark of disorganized attachment?

Disorganized attachment is marked by a lack of a clear attachment behavior, often resulting from unpredictable or abusive caregiving.

How does secure attachment affect later relationships?

Children with secure attachment are more likely to develop healthy relationships in adulthood due to their early experiences.

What role does sensitivity play in attachment?

Parental sensitivity, or responsiveness to a child's needs, is crucial in forming a secure attachment.

What did Ainsworth conclude about attachment behavior?

Ainsworth concluded that attachment behavior is an innate system fostering survival by ensuring proximity to caregivers.

How does culture influence attachment styles?

Culture influences attachment styles by shaping parental behaviors, which can affect how children form attachment.

What is the impact of inconsistent caregiving?

Inconsistent caregiving can lead to anxious-resistant or disorganized attachment styles due to unpredictability.

How can attachment styles be assessed in adults?

Attachment styles in adults can be assessed through self-report questionnaires and structured interviews.

What is the significance of the caregiver-child bond?

The caregiver-child bond is crucial for emotional and social development, impacting future relationships and mental health.

What are implications of Ainsworth's work for parenting?

Ainsworth's work suggests that sensitive and responsive parenting fosters secure attachment and healthy child development.

What did Ainsworth's research reveal about the role of fathers?

Ainsworth's research highlighted that fathers also play a vital role in children's attachment security.

What implications does attachment theory have for therapy?

Attachment theory informs therapeutic practices by addressing attachment styles in individuals' relationships.

What is the link between attachment theory and mental health?

Attachment theory is linked to mental health, as insecure attachment styles can contribute to anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.

How has Ainsworth's work influenced child-rearing practices?

Ainsworth's work has influenced child-rearing practices by promoting the importance of nurturing and responsive caregiving.

What further research was inspired by Ainsworth's attachment theory?

Ainsworth's attachment theory inspired further research on adult attachment and the long-term impact of early attachment experiences.