Explanations of Attachment

What is the learning theory of attachment also known as

• the behaviourist theory

According to the learning theory, what motivates attachment?

• the baby’s desire to have its needs met (e.g., hunger)

• linking attachment to pleasure.

How does classical conditioning explain attachment?

• the infant learns to associate the caregiver (neutral stimulus) with food (unconditioned stimulus), so the caregiver becomes a source of pleasure (conditioned stimulus)

How does operant conditioning explain attachment?

• the infant learns through reinforcement

• crying leads to feeding and comfort (removing discomfort = negative reinforcement), increasing attachment to the caregiver.

What are some criticisms of the learning theory?

• lacks strong scientific support

• reductionist (oversimplifies complex emotional processes)

• findings from animal research may not generalise to humans

• Schaffer & Emerson found infants didn’t always attach to those who fed them

Who developed the monotropic theory of attachment and when?

• John Bowlby

• 1951

What does Bowlby mean by monotropy?

• that infants form one special primary attachment figure, usually the mother

What is the evolutionary basis of Bowlby’s theory?

• attachment is biologically programmed to improve survival through natural selection.

What is the "internal working model"?

• mental template for future relationships, based on early attachment with the primary caregiver

What is a secure base?

• the idea that a strong attachment provides emotional security, allowing the child to explore the world confidently

What is the critical period for attachment?

• the first 2 years of life

• if an attachment doesn’t form during this time, it may never form or cause long-term damage

What is Bowlby’s maternal deprivation hypothesis?

• if attachment is broken or disrupted during the critical period, it can lead to long-term social and emotional issues

What evidence supports Bowlby’s theory?

• Harlow’s monkeys showed the importance of a secure base

• Schaffer & Emerson found evidence for monotropy

• mixed evidence supports the idea of a critical period.

What is one criticism of Bowlby’s idea of monotropy?

• some infants form multiple attachments, not just one primary attachment.

How did Bowlby’s theory impact society?

• his work led to a rise in ‘stay-at-home’ mothers and affected government policies on childcare.