bowlby’s monotropic theory AO3

Question 1

evaluation of bowlby’s monotropic theory - supporting research (strength)

Answer 1

• one strength of bowlby’s monotropic theory is that there is research supporting bowbly’s internal working model.
• hazan and shaver created a ‘love quiz’ which assessed attitudes about adult relationships. results showed that individuals who experiences poor quality attachment in their early years were less likely to hold down or value long term relationships.
• this supports the idea that their expectations of future relationships were negative due to a faulty internal working model which was caused by negative attachments during their critical period.

Question 2

evaluation of bowlby’s monotropic theory - real world application (strength)

Answer 2

• another strength of bowlby’s monotropic theory is that there is much real world application.
• bowlby’s theory had an enormous impact on the care of young children. for example, nowadays when a child is brought into care, it is made sure that adoptions take place as soon as possible during the critical period.
• this is beneficial as it means that they will be able to attach healthily during the critical period and therefore have a posstivie internal working model so they can go on to have healthy adult relationships.

Question 3

evaluation of bowlby’s monotropic theory - social implications (limitation)

Answer 3

• one limitation of bowlby’s monotropic theory is that there are implications for society.
• bowlby places much emphasis on the role of the mother. this is socially sensitive as if a single father is bringing up a child, they may feel like they are inadequate and unable to look after their child.
• this therefore results in a self fulfilling prophecy and ultimately a poor upbringing for the child.