Bowlby's attachment model

Question 1

Pre attachment

Answer 1

PeriodBirth to 6 weeks
DescriptionBaby orientates towards mother, follows them with their eyes, and turns to mother’s voice. Complete attachment not yet complete and baby is still comfortable with unfamiliar people

Question 2

Attachment in the making

Answer 2

Period6 weeks to 6-8 months
DescriptionInfant becomes more attached to one or more persons in the environment. Begins to show different reactions to familiar people versus strangers. Separation anxiety not yet present

Question 3

Clear cut attachment

Answer 3

Period6-8 months to 18-24 months
DescriptionInfant cries and shows distress when separated from the caregiver (separation anxiety). This phase can occur as early as 3 months. On being returned to the caregiver the crying stops. Child shows preference for selective caregivers and will seek to be near them

Question 4

StageFormation of reciprocal attachment

Answer 4

Period18 months to 2 years and on
DescriptionChild begins to understand that their caregiver may leave and return so separation anxiety lessens. Child may be less physically clingy but may begin to find more intelligent ways to influence their caregiver to get their needs met (bribing and sulking for instance)

Question 5

Critical period

Answer 5

Specific attachment does not seem to take place before 6 months. The time from 6 months to 36 months is known as the critical period. During this time a child is most vulnerable to interruptions in its attachment.

Question 6

Attachment types

Answer 6

Attachments are divided into secure and insecure types. Insecure types are further divided into avoidant and ambivalent types.