Maternal Deprivation Theory

definition

the loss or lack of emotional care from a primary caregiver (usually mother) during early childhood

what does MD lead to

breakdown of attachment bonds

negative effects on mental health and behaviour

key points of maternal deprivation hypothesis

critical period: 2-3 years are crucial for forming secure attachments

sensitive period: up to 5 years still sensitive to loss

consequences: long-term emotional and developmental difficulties, affectionless psychopathy, learning difficulties, problems forming healthy relationships later in life

impacts of MD in the critical period

difficulty forming relationships

difficulty regulating emotions

long-term emotional/behavioural consequences

difficulty forming relationships

cognitive impairment

mental health

long-term developmental consequences

developmental issues (secure attachment styles and internal working models)

developmental dwarfism

definition of affectionless psychopathy

individuals show no feelings of guilt/remorse for their antisocial actions

theory of affectionless psychopathy

associated with prolonged separation from the mother during the critical period

implications of affectionless psychopathy

impacts empathy and moral development

possibly leading to criminal behaviour or difficulties forming healthy relationships

aim of 44 thieves

MD = behavioural disorders/affectionless psychopathy?

method of 44 thieves

5-16 year olds who were referred to a clinic where Bowlby worked were examined

44 of the children were criminals (theft) and 44 non-criminals (control)

Bowlby interviewed the children and families to create a record of early life experiences

findings of 44 thieves

14/44 thieves were affectionless psychopaths

12 of these had experienced MD before the age of 2

only 2 showed similar difficulties in the control group

conclusion of 44 thieves

link between MD and later social maladjustment

MDH leads to AP and antisocial behaviour

limitations of MDT

assumes mother is most important attachment

no clear distinction between privation and deprivation, privation may be more damaging (Rutter)

strengths of MDT

research support (44 thieves)

positive implications from MDT (hospital visits)