Evaluation of Ainsworth’s Work on Attachment

Question 1

Strength of procedure

Answer 1

Strange situation procedure is highly standardised for classifying attachment types
High inter-rater reliability = recorded, and reviewed by observers

Question 2

Ethics

Answer 2

Causing distress to children
Although researchers are trying to stop, it becomes too distressing

Question 2

Ecological validity

Answer 2

Criticised
Children may react differently in more familiar surroundings

Question 3

Counter argument of attachment types

Answer 3

May not be useful to measure attachment types of children accustomed to separation, go to attend a regular daycare, are used to strangers so are mislabelled as avoidant, but are really secure

Question 4

Individual differences
Marina Fuertes et al (2006)

Answer 4

Sensitive responsiveness of mothers
48 Portguese babies and mothers
Observed until 1st birthday
Assessed baby’s personality in first few months and mothers sensitivity
12 months used SSP for attachment types
Found personality of baby accurated influenced attachment type to mother

Question 5

Construct validity
Kagan’s 1984

Answer 5

Temperament hypothesis
Childs response is as a result of temperament rather than attachment type