Evidence for Bowlby's Deprivation Theory

Question 1

What is the study called?

Answer 1

Bowlby’s 44 thieves study

Question 2

Aim of the study

Answer 2

To examine link between affectionless psychopathy + maternal deprivation

Question 3

Sample

Answer 3

44 criminal teens

accused of stealing

Question 4

Procedure

Answer 4

thieves:
interviewed for signs of affectionless psychopathy

Family:
Interviewed to see any signs thieves experienced prolonged early separation from mothers

Control Group:
group of disturbed young non criminals
assessed signs of maternal separation + deprivation

Question 5

Findings

Answer 5

Thieves:

• affectionless psychopaths = 14/44
• experienced MD in first 2yrs of life = 12/14
• experienced separations = 5/44

Control group:
- experienced prolonged separation from mothers = 2/44

Question 6

conclusion

Answer 6

deprivation caused affectionless psychopathy

supporting Bowlby’s theory of maternal deprivation