*3b.2 theory of attachment – Bowlby (1969, 1988)

definition of attachment

The strong emotional connection between an infant and their main attachment figure

evolutionary perspective

• attachment provides a safe haven for when the child is afraid, and a secure base from which to explore the world

• separation distress/anxiety serves to draw the attachment figure back to the infant, and is a survival mechanism

monotropy

Bowlby believed that there should be a primary bond that was much more important than any other (usually with the mother)

critical period

• The first 2 ½ years of life was a critical period for forming attachment with a main attachment figure

• if the attachment is broken or disrupted during critical period, the child will suffer irreversible, long-term consequences

• Bowlby claimed that mothering is ineffective if delayed until after 12 to 24 months

sensitive periods

• 0-5 years

• Bowlby believed there was an optimum time (sensitive period) when infants became imprinted by early contact with their mothers

internal working model

guides individual’s expectations about relationships throughout life, subsequentially influencing social behaviour, perception of others and development of self-esteem.

maternal deprivation (hypothesis)

A broken attachment (or lack of attachment) leads to problems for the child with relationships on reaching adulthood.

Bowlby details

• safe haven

• secure base

• distress/anxiety

• survival mechanism

• sensitive period

• imprinting

• primary bond

• internal working model

• critical period

strengths

• Framework for understanding social/emotional developments

• Highlights importance of early relationships and experiences in shaping long-term social and emotional outcomes

criticisms

• Reductionist:

  • explains complex behaviours in narrow terms

• neglect role of social and cultural factors

• based on outdated assumptions about gender roles and parenting practices

application

Inform inventions and policies aimed at promoting healthy attachment relationships and supporting families.

Konrad Lorenz details

• Imprinting suggests that attachment is an innate instinct and genetically predetermined

• This provides an evolutionary advantage- a young gosling will stay close to its parent, increasing the chance of being fed and protected, and taught survival skills.