bowlby's monotropic theory Flashcards
what is the monotropic theory of attachment?
infants have innate drive to form strong attachment to their mother- instinctual
What does ‘monotropy’ mean in Bowlby’s theory?
infant forms one strong, unique attachment with a primary caregiver, which is more important than any other attachment.
What is the critical period in Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory?
first 2.5 yrs after birth. If an attachment is not formed during this period, the child may struggle with emotional, social, and cognitive development later in life
what are social releasers?
Social releasers are innate infant behaviors like crying and smiling - trigger caregiving responses from adults = attachment formation
strength- animal study support
Lorenz’s study on geese= attachment is innate and follows an imprinting process, supporting the idea of a critical period.
Harlow’s monkey study= the importance of comfort and attachment, showing infants seek more than just food.
weakness- how does bowlby’s monotropic theory reflect determinism?
suggests that early attachment determines later relationships and emotional health. However, many people with poor early attachments develop healthy relationships = attachment is not entirely fixed.
strength- How does Bowlby’s theory have real-world applications?
applied to childcare- immediate physical contact between mother and baby after birth + social services for neglection cases
weakness- Why is Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory considered socially sensitive + lack temporal validity?
suggests mothers must be the primary caregiver for secure attachment, putting pressure on women to stay at home= reinforce traditional gender roles and blame working mothers for attachment issues in children.
weakness- behaviourist explanation
behaviourists claim that environment creates attachment- cupboard love= mother provides food so they feel pleasure in her presence= alt exp.
