Theories of Attachment: Flashcards
What is attachment?
The emotional bond that is formed between infants and young children and their main caregiver.
What did Bowlby believe about attachment?
That infants are biologically pre-programmed to form attachments.
Why is attachment to the primary caregiver essential, according to Bowlby?
It provides a model for future attachments.
What happens if there is a disruption to attachment?
It has a negative impact on development.
What is the critical period for developing attachments, according to Bowlby?
In the early months of life.
What happens from birth to 3 months in Schaffer and Emerson’s stages?
The infant responds to any caregiver.
What happens between 4-7 months in Schaffer and Emerson’s stages?
The infant shows a preference for the primary caregiver.
What happens between 7-9 months in Schaffer and Emerson’s stages?
The infant prefers the primary caregiver, seeks comfort from them, and shows fear of strangers.
What happens from 10 months onwards in Schaffer and Emerson’s stages?
The infant begins to form attachments with others and has multiple attachments.
What did Mary Ainsworth study?
The types of attachment based on children’s reactions when parted from a parent.
What are the three types of attachment in Ainsworth’s SSC?
- Secure.
- Insecure/avoidant.
- Insecure/resistant.
What is the parenting style for secure attachment?
The parent is in tune with the child and their emotions.
What is the parenting style for insecure/avoidant attachment?
The parent is unavailable to the child and rejects them.
What is the parenting style for insecure/resistant attachment?
The parent is inconsistent in meeting the child’s needs.
How do infants behave in secure attachment?
• Show distress when the primary caregiver leaves.
• Seek comfort from the caregiver when they return.
• Are happy with strangers when the caregiver is present.
