Attachment Theory

Question 1

Attachment

Answer 1

Infant’s particular relationships to significant others; considered by some a biological need for survival

Question 2

Signs of Attachment in an infant

Answer 2

Separation Anxiety
Less afraid in presence of attachment figures
Social Referencing (child behaviour toy if mother appears afraid)

Question 3

Separation Anxiety Timeframe during normal development

Answer 3

7-9 months show protests at separation/stranger anxiety

Peak age for separation anxiety is 14-18 months

Question 4

Evolutionary purposes of attachment

Answer 4

Survival (Nurture/Protection)

Psychological Security (To explore environment, form new relationships, cope with new experiences)

Question 5

Focal Length of Infants

Answer 5

20-30cm

Question 6

Effect of senses on infant attachment

Answer 6

Infants use senses to identify the parents and even from just a few days after birth this has an impact on their attachment

Question 7

4 Attachment Types

Answer 7

Secure - ‘I’m ok, you’re there for me’
Insecure Avoidant - ‘It’s not ok to be emotional’
Insecure Ambivalent/Anxious- ‘I want comfort but it doesn’t help me’
Insecure Disordered - ‘I’m frightened’

Question 8

How parents cause secure attachments to be developed

Answer 8

• Provide Comfort
• Be reliable and consistent
• Be attuned to understanding and responding effectively to the child
• Practice self care and demonstrating positive behaviours towards themselves

Question 9

Effect of ADHD on attachment

Answer 9

80% of Children diagnosed with ADHD have attachment issues

Question 10

Intervention to improve infant attachment

Answer 10

Just holding the child close to the mother’s body as opposed to on a stroller makes a massive difference

Question 11

How doctors should consider attachment theory

Answer 11

Attempting to reduce familial separation
- Allowing parents to stay with children during care
- Promoting day care to teach separation healthily
Giving support and preparation for parents in medical settings
Continuity of care to allow child to form other attachments

Question 12

Impact of attachment styles on adulthood

Answer 12

Poorer mental and physical health for those with insecure attachment
More pain for those with insecure styles
Less able to benefit from social support provided