Bowlby's Theory
The Continuity Hypothesis
Adaptive and Innate
Critical Period
Caregiving is Adaptive
A Secure Base
Monotropy and Hierarchy
Internal Working Model
Children have an innate drive to form attachment as it aids survival.
Their offspring are therefore more likely to successfully form attachments due to genetic factors.
The sensitivity of the caregiver determines whether an attachment will form.
Early attachment experiences shape future behaviour.
An insecurely attached infant is likely to continue having social and emotional difficulties later in childhood and adulthood.
A securely attached infant is likely to continue to be socially and emotionally competent.
E.g. an infant experiencing consistent love, attention and is made to feel valued will expect this from all future relationships.
Attachments formed during infancy act as a model for future relationships.
This primary attachment figure (person who responds most sensitively) is called monotropy.
He believed that infants form numerous attachments but 1 of these is most important.
Infants help this by their social releasers (e.g. crying, smiling, having a baby face, puppy dog eyes etc.) which activate the adult attachment system.
Infants who do not form an attachment in this time seem to struggle forming attachments later on.
Suggested attachments form between 3-6 months.
The drive to provide care is also innate and adaptive as it helps the survival of your species.
Attachments offer protection and provide a secure base for infants to go and explore their environment.
The secure base ensures infants know they have somewhere to return to.
A secure base helps to promote independence.
The infant forms a hierarchy of its secondary attachment figures which aid development of social skills and overall psychological development.
Evaluation
Evidence from animal behaviour shows attachment is innate.
Evidence supports continuity hypothesis (Minnesota parent-child project).
Learning theory suggests food is key rather than sensitivity.
Temperament of infant plays a role.
Is there a difference between multiple attachments and monotropy?