Stages of attachment (Schaffer)

Question 1

What are the 4 stages of attachment?

Answer 1

1. Asocial stage (0-6 weeks).
2. Indiscriminate attachments (6 weeks- 6 months).
3. Specific attachments (7 months +).
4. Multiple attachments (10/11 months +)

Question 2

What happens during the Asocial stage?

Answer 2

• 0-6 weeks.
• Similar responses to objects and people.
• Preference for faces and eyes.

Question 3

What happens during the Indiscriminate attachment stage?

Answer 3

• 6 weeks- 6 months.
• Preference for human company.
• Ability to distinguish between people but comforted indiscriminately.

Question 4

What happens during the specific attachment stage?

Answer 4

• 7 months +
• Infants show a preference for one caregiver, displaying separation and stranger anxiety. The baby looks to particular people for security, comfort and protection.

Question 5

What happens during the multiple attachment stage?

Answer 5

• 10/11 months +.
• Attachment behaviours are displayed towards several different people e.g. siblings, grandparents etc.