attachment theory

attachment theory

how our early (before we can remember) relationship with our primary caregiver shapes connections in adulthood

the strange situation

foundational research on attachment theory. PC and stranger in room, PC leaves room and child’s behaviour is observed

secure attachment

most common attachment style. child initially explores room & plays with toys. when PC leaves they are upset but are quickly comforted when PC returns. indicates consistent, secure base

anxious attachment

child ignores PC, externally unphased, but internally disregulated. indicates lack of secure base. child is trying to be as independent as possible. causes: neglect

anxious-ambivalent attachment

child is very clingy with PC. no exploration of room. distress when PC leaves, no comfort upon return. indicates an inconsistent base. causes: unpredictable PC

Disorganized attachment

least common. inconsistent attachment behaviours. shows aspects of multiple attachment styles. causes: (intergenerational) trauma/abuse

secure adults

comfortable with dependence and independence, associated with the highest relationship satisfaction. can be earned through therapy and healthy relationships

anxious-avoidant adults

only comfortable with independence. tend to avoid attachments/commitment. respond very poorly to rejection (withdraw/leave)

anxious-ambivalent adults

only comfortable with dependence (clingy). become really involved with partner. low self worth. intensely seek intimacy and approval. emotional dysregulation. associated w BPD

disorganized adults

seek approval, then pull away when they receive it. tend to get angry with partner. low self worth and crave approval. fear driven. associated w BPD

criticism of attachment theory

it puts people in little boxes. an oversimplification. has only been tested on western cultures