Attachment - caregiver infant interactions Flashcards
Define attachment
A close two way emotional bond between individuals in which each individual sees the other as essential for their own emotional security
How do we know when an attachment has formed
People trying to stay in close proximity to their attachment and separation anxiety or distress when attachment leaves
Define reciprocity
a description of how two people interact e.g. both mother and infant respond to each other’s signals and each elicits a response from the other
What does reciprocity research (Feldman and Eidelman) say
Babies have ‘alert phases’ which signal they are ready for interaction. Picked up by mothers 2/3 of the time
What does reciprocity research (Jaffe et al) say
infants coordinated their actions with their caregivers as though they were taking turns
What does reciprocity research (Brazelton) say
This basic rhythm is important for later communication
Define international synchrony
Two people are said to be synchronized where they carry out an action at the same time. It takes place in such a way where the infant and the mother mirror their actions in some way
What was the aim of Meltzoff and Moore’s research (1977)
to investigate the age at which interactional synchrony occurs between mother and child
What was a method of Meltzoff and Moore’s research (1977)
an adult model displayed one of 3 facial expressions or hand movements where fingers moved in a sequence. A dummy was placed in the infant’s mouth during the initial display to prevent a response
What were the findings of Meltzoff and Moore’s research (1977)
infants as young as 2-3 weeks old imitated specific facial and hand gestures
What key behaviours did Maccoby discover about attachment
Seeking proximity by child and caregiver. Distress on seperation (anxiety). Pleasure when reunited. General orientation or behaviour towards caregiver
What are positive evaluations on reciprocity
Research support (Tronick et al). Practical applications.
