Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory

Question 1

Define mono tropic theory

Answer 1

This is the belief that we have an innate need to form attachments and that we must form a special attachment to ONE caregiver in particular, within a new window or time. This bond is influential in later relationships.

Question 2

Define the term ‘Adaptive’

Answer 2

Adaptive means when a trait gives a survival or reproductive advantage in a particular environment. In the context of mono tropic theory, attachment gives a survival advantage.

Question 3

What are ‘Social Releasers’?

Answer 3

Social releases are innate, cute features and behaviours which encourage attachment behaviour from parents. For example, babies often have big eyes which resemble cuteness

Question 4

What is the ‘critical period’?

Answer 4

This refers to the time within which an attachment must form if it is to form at all. (Two years/30 months in humans)

Question 5

What are ‘Internal Working Models’?

Answer 5

The mental representations/schemer of relationships, based of our attachment to a primary caregiver. These affect our future relationships because they’ve become our expectations for what relationships are like.

Question 6

What is a ‘Continuity Hypothesis?’

Answer 6

The belief that your initial attachment will correlate with your future adult relationships. Furthermore, that this will affect parenting style and so attachment types of continue over generations.