Bowlby's Theory of Maternal Deprivation

Question 1

define maternal deprivation

Answer 1

having no primary caregiver or being separated from them during the critical period (first 2-3 years)

Question 2

what are the consequences of maternal deprivation and how can these be avoided

Answer 2

low IQ and showing signs of affectionless psychopathy

can be avoided with good substitute care

Question 3

outline Bowlby’s 44 juvenile thieves study

Answer 3

• sample was 44 troubled teens accused of stealing
• families were interviewed and asked if the child had been separated from the mother for prolonged periods of time during the critical period
• teens were interviewed and assessed for signs of affectionless psychopathy
• 12 out 14 ‘thieves’ diagnosed as affectionless psychopaths experienced frequent separations from their mother during the critical period

Question 4

explain one strength of Bowlby’s theory of maternal deprivation

Answer 4

1. • has real life application
   • changed the way vulnerable children are cared for
   • previously children were separated from parents in hospital and young children were cared for in institutions
   • now parents are allowed to stay with their children in hospital and young children removed from parents are always fostered
   • shows that Bowlby’s theory has made a valuable contribution to society, especially for vulnerable children

Question 5

explain two weaknesses of Bowlby’s theory of maternal deprivation

Answer 5

1. • case study research shows the effects of maternal deprivation may not be irreversible
   • example: Czech twins
   • weren’t adopted until the age of 7
   • despite this they fully recovered from the effects abuse in their early years
   • weakens the maternal deprivation theory as it shows the critical period may be more of a sensitive period and the effects can be overcome with consistent, positive subsequent care
2. • Bowlby didn’t differentiate between maternal deprivation and privation
   • Bowlby’s theory of maternal deprivation applies to both without stating privation may have much worse consequences
   • Rutter argued privation has more serious long-term effects (as seen in his Romanian Orphan study)
   • suggests Bowlby’s theory lacks necessary details and should’ve differentiated between privation and deprivation