Bowlby's Monotropic Theory Flashcards
What did Bowlby suggest about all infants?
That they are innately programmed to form an attachment from birth; this attachment is adaptive (good for our survival).
What does Bowlby argue that infants are born with?
An attachment gene that makes them exhibit innate behaviours which increase the chances of receiving care.
What are the innate behaviours also known as?
Social releasers.
What are some examples of social releasers?
Clinging, crying, smiling.
What type of process does Bowlby suggest attachment is?
A biological process.
What does the attachment gene in parents cause?
Drives the parent to provide care as this is also adaptive.
What did Bowlby find about the critical period?
Attachments tend to be formed between 6 months and 2 and a half years.
What is Monotropy?
The one relationship that is of special significance (usually with the mother) and the drive to have one main attachment.
What did Bowlby suggest about future relationships?
That the type of mother-child relationship provides infants with an internal-working model (attachment template) for later relationships.
What is the internal-working model also referred to as?
The continuity hypothesis as the same attachment behaviours continue to follow the same template.
What are the 5 evaluation points for Monotropic Theory?
\+ Lorenz (1935). \+ Hazen and Shaver. \+ Tronick et al (1992). - Schaffer and Emerson (1964). - Criticised the critical period.
