3. ATTACHMENT (Explanations of attachment: Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory. The concepts of a critical period and an internal working model) Flashcards
What is Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory of attachment?
Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory posits that attachment is an innate process that provides a survival advantage. He emphasized that one primary attachment figure, usually the mother, is more important than others and plays a central role in development.
Why does Bowlby argue that attachment is adaptive?
Attachment is adaptive because it provides a survival advantage. The attachment bond helps ensure that the child stays close to the caregiver, which enhances survival by securing care, protection, and resources.
What are social releasers according to Bowlby?
Social releasers are biologically predisposed behaviours in infants (e.g., crying, smiling, and gurgling) that trigger caregiving responses from adults, ensuring the infant receives attention and care, promoting attachment.
What is the critical period for attachment according to Bowlby?
The critical period is a biologically determined window, typically between 6 months and 2.5 years, during which attachment must form. If attachment does not develop within this period, it may not develop at all.
How has research modified Bowlby’s concept of the critical period?
Some research suggests that attachment can form outside the critical period, though it may develop more slowly. This has led to the concept of a “sensitive period,” a time when attachment is more easily formed.
What is monotropy in Bowlby’s theory?
Monotropy refers to the idea that one attachment, usually to the primary caregiver (often the mother), is more significant and forms the foundation for all future attachments.
What is the internal working model in Bowlby’s theory?
The internal working model is a mental framework based on early attachment experiences. It shapes how individuals perceive themselves, others, and relationships, influencing future interactions and relationships throughout life.
What are the key features of the internal working model?
- A model of others as trustworthy,
- A model of the self as valuable,
- A model of the self as effective in relationships.
What does the continuity hypothesis state?
The continuity hypothesis suggests that early attachment experiences influence the nature of later relationships, including friendships, romantic relationships, and parenting styles.
How does early attachment affect later life?
Children with secure attachments tend to form positive relationships and become good parents themselves. In contrast, those with insecure attachments may struggle with relationships and parenting.
What research supports Bowlby’s continuity hypothesis?
Ainsworth, Hazan, and Shaver (1987) found that adults who were securely attached as infants had longer-lasting relationships, while those with insecure attachments struggled with adult relationships. This supports the continuity hypothesis.
What evidence challenges Bowlby’s idea of monotropy?
Schaffer and Emerson (1964) found that many infants form multiple attachments simultaneously, not just one primary attachment. This challenges the idea of monotropy, where one attachment is considered more important than others.
How does temperament challenge Bowlby’s theory?
Temperament, or a child’s inborn personality traits (e.g., anxiety or sociability), may influence how relationships are formed. This suggests that Bowlby’s theory overemphasizes early attachment experiences and neglects the role of temperament.
What criticism does Bowlby’s theory face regarding the role of the father?
Bowlby’s theory is criticized for downplaying the father’s role in early attachment. Research (e.g., Grossman) shows that fathers, while typically playing a more play-based role, also contribute significantly to child development.
How does Bowlby’s theory contradict the learning theory of attachment?
Bowlby’s theory emphasizes the innate, evolutionary nature of attachment, while learning theory suggests attachment is learned through reinforcement and association, ignoring the biological basis of attachment.
