Bowlby’s 44 Thieves Study (1944)

Question 1

Aim of the study?

Answer 1

Test effects of separation on children’s emotional wellbeing

Question 2

Procedure of study?

Answer 2

44 criminals were interviewed for signs of affection less psychopathy
Their families were also interviewed whether the thieves have prolonged early separation from mama
Control group of 44 non criminals who were emotionally disturbed were tested to see how often they had maternal deprivation

Question 3

Finding ?

Answer 3

14/44 thieves were affectionless psychopaths
12/14 thieves had prolonged separation
Control group 2/44 had experienced long separation