Attachment Theories

Front

Who developed the Theory of Attachment?

Back

John Bowlby

Front

What is the basis of Bowlby's Theory of Attachment?

Back

The theory is based on research from the 1940s, linking social, emotional, and cognitive development to the child's relationship with their mother.

Front

What is an attachment according to Bowlby?

Back

A deep and enduring emotional bond that connects a child to their primary caregiver.

Front

What is the critical period for forming attachments according to Bowlby?

Back

Approximately 0-3 years.

Front

What is separation anxiety in Bowlby's theory?

Back

Intense distress when the mother (primary caregiver) is not present.

Front

What is the Internal Working Model in Bowlby's theory?

Back

A schema that acts as a template for future relationships, affecting how a child will form attachments as they grow up.

Front

What does the continuity hypothesis suggest?

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Infants with strong attachments in infancy are likely to be socially and emotionally competent, whereas those without strong attachments may face difficulties with their emotional and social well-being.

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What is a criticism of Bowlby's theory?

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Critics say Bowlby oversimplified attachment, and Rutter argued that privation (no opportunity to form an attachment), not maternal deprivation, is more damaging.

Front

What did Ainsworth study to show attachment theory?

Back

She conducted the strange situation experiment and identified three forms of attachment: Secure, Insecure-Avoidant, and Insecure-Resistant.

Front

Describe secure attachment according to Ainsworth.

Back

Children show separation anxiety when the mother leaves and are happy when she returns, showing no interest in strangers.