Exploring Bowlby's Attachment Theory, this overview discusses the critical role of a primary caregiver in a child's early development stages. It examines the concept of monotropy, the developmental stages of attachment, and the long-term effects of the internal working model on relationships. The text also addresses the criticisms and practical applications of the theory in child psychology and development.
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Bowlby's theory suggests that children are biologically predisposed to form strong bonds with caregivers for survival
Asocial Phase
Infants in this stage show no preference for specific caregivers
Indiscriminate Attachments
Infants in this stage form attachments with multiple caregivers
Specific Attachments
Infants in this stage form a primary attachment with one caregiver
Bowlby identified four key features of attachment: safe haven, secure base, proximity maintenance, and separation distress
Bowlby introduced this term to describe the negative consequences of prolonged separation or absence of a primary caregiver
Complete lack of an attachment figure can lead to severe social and emotional difficulties
This cognitive framework is shaped by early attachment experiences and influences future relationships and functioning
Continuity Hypothesis
This extension of the internal working model suggests that early attachment relationships have a lasting impact on later relationships
Some critics argue that the theory may not apply to all cultures and diverse research samples are needed
Researchers have found that children often form attachments with multiple caregivers, challenging the idea of a single primary attachment
Rutter suggests that disrupted attachment may not be the sole cause of negative outcomes, and lack of social and cognitive stimulation may also play a role
Attachment theory has informed therapeutic approaches for addressing emotional and behavioral issues related to attachment problems
The theory has influenced practices in childcare and early education, emphasizing the importance of sensitive and responsive caregiving
Attachment theory has had implications for views on the role of mothers and the structure of the workforce
00
______'s theory, developed in the second half of the 20th century, posits that children have an innate need to form a significant bond with their ______ for survival.
John Bowlby
caregivers
01
Stages of attachment development according to Bowlby
Asocial phase, indiscriminate attachments, specific attachments, multiple attachments.
02
Innate signaling behaviors in infants
Crying, smiling to elicit caregiver proximity and support.
