Attachment theory

Welcome to the fifth episode of our Developmental Psychology course! In this session, we delve into Attachment Theory, a cornerstone of developmental psychology. We will explore the pioneering work of John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, understanding how the crucial early bond between an infant and a primary caregiver shapes our lives. You will learn about the concept of a 'secure base', the formation of an 'internal working model' of relationships, and the famous 'Strange Situation' experiment. We will identify and differentiate the four main attachment styles: secure, anxious-avoidant, anxious-ambivalent, and disorganized. This episode builds on our understanding of child and adult development by explaining how these early relational patterns influence our social and emotional landscape across the entire lifespan, setting the stage for future relationships and our sense of self.

Check your understanding

These are the same multiple-choice questions you will see in the Quiz section after you listen to the episode. Use them here to preview or review the answers.

According to John Bowlby, what is the primary evolutionary function of the attachment system in infants?

  1. To ensure the infant receives adequate nutrition.
  2. To promote cognitive development through early learning.
  3. To ensure the infant's survival by maintaining proximity to a caregiver for protection.
  4. To teach the infant social rules and norms from birth.
  5. To facilitate the development of language skills.

What key behavior did Mary Ainsworth's 'Strange Situation' experiment focus on to classify attachment styles?

  1. The infant's reaction to the stranger when the caregiver was present.
  2. How much the infant cried when the caregiver left the room.
  3. The infant's behavior and reaction when reunited with the caregiver.
  4. The infant's willingness to play with the toys in the room.
  5. The infant's interaction with the stranger when left alone.

An infant who shows little distress when their mother leaves and actively ignores her upon her return is likely demonstrating which attachment style?

  1. Secure Attachment
  2. Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment
  3. Disorganized Attachment
  4. Anxious-Avoidant Attachment

What is the 'internal working model' as described in Attachment Theory?

  1. A biological system that regulates an infant's body temperature.
  2. A set of instinctual behaviors like crying and smiling.
  3. A mental representation of the self, others, and relationships based on early attachment experiences.
  4. A psychological test used to measure infant intelligence.
  5. A parenting technique for promoting independence in toddlers.

Which of the following are characteristics of a securely attached child in the 'Strange Situation'?

  1. They show extreme fear and confusion throughout the experiment.
  2. They are easily soothed by the caregiver upon their return.
  3. They use the caregiver as a 'secure base' from which to explore.
  4. They show equal preference for the stranger and the caregiver.
  5. They completely ignore the caregiver's departure and return.

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