U2-L11: The Psychology of Relationships Flashcards
What is attachment theory - John Bowlby?
Babies and caregivers possess instincts to ensure survival such as crying and protection from harm. Those who do not have these things will not survive and thereby their genes as well (Natural Selection). Human infants have an innate tendency to form attachments to their primary caregivers.
What is the critical period for attachment and what happens if needs are not met?
Ages 0 to 2 and Half, suffer from irreversible developmental consequences such as reduced intelligence and increased aggression
What were Harry Haslow’s experiments?
infant monkeys were separated from birth mothers and given either cloth or wire monkeys to feed them. Even when wire monkeys would feed them, cloth monkeys would most often be held onto.
What was the impact of Haslow’s experiments?
Infants depend on their caregivers for more than just physical needs, they need to satisfy emotional needs too
What did Mary Ainsworth prove through her experiments?
Children with mothers who were highly responsive to their needs developed a sense of security in their attachment that children with less sensitive mothers lacked. This security forms the foundation of adult relationships.
