Emotional Development Flashcards
Define the two components that make up self-concept.
Self-esteem - involves self-confidence and self-acceptance, how an individual feels about themself.
Self-image - the mental picture that an individual has of themselves.
How does self-esteem have an impact on individuals?
High self-esteem:
positive outlook on life
greater confidence
willing to take on new challenges
Low self-esteem:
withdrawn and depressed
less likely to engage in opportunities (educational, social, occupational)
susceptible to peer pressure (engage in risky activities, eg. drugs)
lead to mental health difficulties and potentially suicide
How does self-image have an impact on individuals?
Negative comments about appearance can lead to eating disorders.
Qualities that people see in themselves can affect the activities they choose to participate in, eg. if they do not see themselves as intelligent they may not participate in educational activities.
What is body image?
Someone’s perception of their physical appearance.
What are eating disorders?
Mental health conditions involving an unhealthy relationship with food and one’s weight.
Define attachment.
The connection between a child and a caregiver.
Explain Bowlby’s theory of attachment.
Everyone has an inbuilt need for attachment.
Attachment with primary caregiver, eg. mother, is important for health development and feelings of security and safety.
Infancy is the critical period for developing patterns of attachment that influence the person in later life.
What is a secure attachment?
A good relationship between child and caregiver.
Child is happy and confident, and feels secure enough to explore and try new things.
Facilitates healthy development.
What is an insecure attachment?
A caregiver does not meet a child’s needs consistently or appropriately.
Can lead to behavioural problems, trust issues, and clingy behaviour in the person’s later life.
What is separation anxiety?
Distress experienced by a child when apart from their primary caregiver.
What factors can disrupt the development of attachments?
Parents’ difficulties - eg. postnatal depression, drug abuse etc.
Separation or inconsistent caregivers - eg. parent in prison, foster care etc.
Premature or disabled children
Criticisms of Bowlby?
Children may form more effective relationships with people other than their primary caregiver – sensitive responsiveness might be more important.
Overemphasis on maternal attachment.
According to Rutter, a lack of healthy attachments overall may be particularly problematic (privation).
