Emotional development Flashcards
What is the attachment theory?
The attachment theory is the ability for infants to form an emotional bond to another person who can usually be their caregiver. The idea that a human can form a safe and secure relationship with an adult in order for a healthy emotional development
When and how are attachments formed?
Attachments are formed in the early months of a child’s life when the person has a significant impact on their development.
What are the four characteristics of the Bowlby’s attachment theory?
Proximity maintenance, Safe haven, Secure base and Separation distress
Explain the term proximity maintenance
When the infant wants to be near to the person who it is attached to
Explain the term safe haven
The idea that the infant can return to the attachment figure for comfort and safety when feeling scared or unsafe.
Explain the term secure base
The idea that the infant perceives the attachment base as a base of security at which the infant can explore the surrounding environment. It finds security around the attachment figure
Explain the term separation distress
It is when the infant suffers anxiety and stress when it is away from the attachment figures or when the attachment figure is absent.
What were the findings from Mary Ainsworth’s ‘Strange Situation’ experiment?
The infant cries when it wants attention.
The infant cries when it is being held with someone other than it’s caregiver.
The infant is in distress when it’s caregiver leaves
The infant becomes happy when it is reunited with its caregiver
What are types of attachments?
Secure attachment, Resistant attachment, Avoidant attachment
What is a secure attachment?
When there is a balance between dependence and exploration
When the infant is playful, curious and can still explore around their environment
What is a resistant attachment?
When the infant appears anxious when the caregiver is near and very upset when they are separated from the caregiver.
What is a avoidant attachment?
When the infant does not seek closeness or contact with the caregiver, treats them like a stranger
What did Harlow’s monkey experiment show?
That the monkey went to the fake doll which was soft and gave it comfort over the fake doll which only gave it food.
That ‘comfort’ contact was more important than than providing food.
