Attachment theory (GPT) Flashcards
What is Attachment Theory?
Attachment theory, proposed by John Bowlby, explores the emotional bonds formed between infants and their primary caregivers.
Who developed Attachment Theory?
John Bowlby, a British psychologist and psychiatrist, is the key figure behind Attachment Theory.
What is the primary focus of Attachment Theory?
Attachment Theory emphasizes the significance of early relationships and their impact on emotional and social development.
What is the “Strange Situation” procedure?
The “Strange Situation” is a structured observational measure developed by Mary Ainsworth to assess the quality of attachment between a child and caregiver.
How many attachment patterns did Mary Ainsworth identify in the “Strange Situation”?
- secure
- insecure-avoidant
- insecure-ambivalent/resistant.
What is a secure attachment pattern?
In a secure attachment pattern, infants use their caregiver as a secure base for exploration and show distress when separated but are easily comforted upon reunion.
Describe insecure-avoidant attachment.
In insecure-avoidant attachment, infants show little distress upon separation and avoidance or indifference upon reunion with the caregiver.
Describe insecure-ambivalent/resistant attachment.
Infants with insecure-ambivalent/resistant attachment are anxious and uncertain, showing both proximity-seeking and resistance upon reunion with the caregiver.
How does Attachment Theory view the role of the caregiver?
Caregivers are seen as essential for providing a secure base, emotional support, and a foundation for healthy development.
What are the long-term effects of secure attachment?
Securely attached individuals often demonstrate better emotional regulation, social competence, and mental health outcomes later in life.
What is the critical period for forming attachments?
Attachment behaviors are most prominent during the first two years of life, suggesting a sensitive period for attachment formation.
How does Attachment Theory relate to atypical development?
Atypical attachment patterns can be linked to later behavioral and emotional difficulties, including challenges in forming healthy relationships.
What is Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)?
RAD is a disorder where children have difficulty forming attachments due to early neglect, leading to challenges in forming healthy relationships.
How does attachment impact psychopathology?
Insecure attachment patterns have been associated with a higher risk of developing various psychopathological conditions later in life.
How does Attachment Theory align with Piaget’s cognitive development stages?
Attachment behaviors in infants align with Piaget’s sensorimotor stage, emphasizing the role of early experiences in shaping cognitive development.
