Attachment Theory
Definition
Attachment theory is a psychological model that describes the long-term interpersonal relationships between humans. It suggests that children form an emotional bond with caregivers due to their care and responsiveness.
Analogy
Think of attachment theory like a tree and its roots. Just as a tree needs strong roots to grow and thrive, children need secure attachments to develop emotionally and socially.
Related terms
Secure Attachment: This refers to the type of attachment where children feel confident that their caregivers will be available and responsive to their needs.
Insecure Attachment: This is when children are uncertain about the availability or reliability of their caregiver, leading them to respond in various ways such as being overly dependent or avoiding closeness.
Bowlby's Attachment Theory: Named after psychologist John Bowlby, this theory emphasizes the importance of early relationships, suggesting that our earliest bonds shape our adult relationships.
"Attachment Theory" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (7)
- which researcher is known for the Strange Situation assessment and contributions to the area of attachment theory?
- Who conducted groundbreaking research in the area of body contact and attachment theory during the 1950s?
- What is the effect on an individual whose primary caregiver provided inconsistent responses during their infancy, according to attachment theory?
- Which developmental psychologist is most associated with the concept of attachment theory?
- How does attachment theory explain why a child becomes distressed when separated from their primary caregiver?
- What is an ethical consideration when utilizing attachment theory into interventions for maladapted social behaviors?
- What is the impact of secure attachment on a child's social development according to attachment theory?
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