The internal working model

Question 1

Outline

Answer 1

• Bowlby stated that the IWM is a template that forms the basis of our assumptions about all relationships. This mental representation is formed on the basis of the relationship with the primary attachment figure.
• Bowlby stated that we will seek out, and form relationships that mirror the first attachment and our IWM.
• The IWM powerfully affects the nature of future relationships:
  1. Loving relationship/ reliable caregiver- assumption relationships should be that way= seek out functional relationships= behave functionally within them.
  2. Bad experiences- struggle to form relationships= don’t behave appropriately in them.

REFER TO THE CONTINUITY HYPOTHESIS!!!!!!