Attachment

Attachment

Learning objectives 

1. To comprehend Bowbly’s theory of attachment.

2. Explore our own personal attachment styles in relationships.

3. Discuss how we bonded with our adult.

What is attachment ?

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Define attachment
theory

John Bowbly 

Behaviourist theorist

“Lasting psychologically connectedness between human beings”

Interested in anixety and distress children experience when separated from their primary caregivers.

Monotrophy occurs when a baby is attached to their family members. Bowbly suggests the primary bond is salient with the caregiver (typically the mother), known as primary monotrophy attachment. 

Bowbly declared attachment behaviour occurs naturally due to babies being biologically programmed to ensure they attach to another. 

Bowbly believes the attachment between the primary caregiver and their baby is qualitatively different to other attachments. 

Monotrophy

Primary bond

Biologically programmed

Qualitatively

Requirement to attach to one main attachment figure

Behaviour one individual has for another

Instinctual behaviour

Research completed through data

Research completed through interviews etc.

Reactions is a direct product of interactions

The attachment between individuals

The person that was first present with the child

Critical Period

Retrieval of continuous care of the primary caregiver for approximately the first two years of life.

Bowlby suggests there is critical period for two and half years. If attachment has not developed, it may not at all.

Sensitive periods was proposed by Bowlby for a period of five years of the child’s life.

Attachment styles

How did you bond with your primary caregiver?

What is your attachment style?

Avoidant

Disorganised

Why babies bond?

• Form a strong connection with family 
  
• Releases hormones and chemicals in the babies brain
  
• Foundation for development and wellbeing
• Increases confidence in the future to explore the world
• Impacts future relationships 

Learning objectives 

1. To comprehend Bowbly’s theory of attachment.

2. Explore our own personal attachment styles in relationships.

3. Discuss how we bonded with our adult.