by Kate McKee

Created on: November 19, 2009   Last Updated: November 21, 2009

Attachment theory in psychology states that the type of bond a baby forms with its primary caregiver (usually, but not always, the mother) will have an impact on how the baby copes with relationships for the rest of its life. Attachments form between the ages of six months and two years, and the type of attachment that is formed will dictate how a baby develops socially and emotionally.

This concept of attachment was first introduced in the 1960's by John Bowlby, a British psychiatrist, who was the first theorist to suggest that the lack of an early secure relationship with a primary caregiver would have consequences later in life.

Bowlby put forward the theory that if the mother provides a safe haven for her baby, then the baby will turn to her in times of distress for comfort and protection. He suggested that if the mother provides a secure base for the baby, then the baby can confidently go and explore its surroundings. He also identified the concepts of proximity maintenance, where a baby will try to stay physically close to its mother; and separation anxiety, where the baby becomes distressed if parted from its mother.

Bowlby's work was developed by his colleague Mary Ainsworth, whose studies led her to propose three different types of attachment: secure, ambivalent, and avoidant. Later, a fourth type, disorganized, was added. The type of attachment that baby forms is based on the kind of care they receive:

Secure Attachment

If the mother consistently responds quickly and appropriately to her baby's needs, a secure attachment will form. The baby will know that its mother will comfort it in times of distress, and will become upset if separated from the mother, but will quickly recover once reunited with her. The baby will allow a stranger to comfort him, but will show a definite preference for the mother. A baby who is securely attached to its mother will have the confidence to go and explore its surroundings, confident in the knowledge that its mother is there as a 'secure base' to return to.

Avoidant Attachment

If the mother does not respond to her baby when it is distressed, then an avoidant attachment will form. The baby will not become distressed if separated from its mother, and will not show any preference for the mother over a stranger. This baby will not share well in play situations, and will not seek to be picked up or comforted by its mother.

Ambivalent Attachment

If a mother is inconsistent, alternating between appropriate and neglectful

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>