Bowlby's Monotropic Theory

Question 1

Bowlby’s Monotropic Theory

Answer 1

Evolutionary explanation of attachment; Bowlby argues infants have an innate drive to form an especially strong attachment to their mother (monotropy) and stay in close proximity. Bowlby argues this drive is instinctual as forming a strong attachment is vital to infants’ survival, as their mother provides food and safety.

Question 2

Social Releasers

Answer 2

To help develop the monotropic relationship, babies instinctively use signals called social releasers (Crying, smiling, vocalisations) that attract the caregiver’s attention; according to Bowlby’s Monotropic theory, mothers are biologically programmed to instinctively find these behaviours cute or distressing.

Question 3

Critical period

Answer 3

Based on Lorenz’s discovery of a 32-hour critical period in geese, in which attachment must form or not at all. Bowlby suggests a strong monotropic attachment must form in the first 30 months after birth. Bowlby claims a lack on monotropy results in permanent negative social, intellectual and emotional consequences for the infant.

Question 4

Internal Working Model

Answer 4

Informed by Freud’s focus on early childhood and Harlow’s work on monkeys, Bowlby claims the child’s monotropic attachment to its mother provides a blueprint for future relationships (schema). this internal working model guides how to conduct future relationships, such as if people can be trusted or if relationships are loving.

Question 5

Safe base behaviour

Answer 5

Bowlby suggests stronger attachments in infant-caregiver relationships will form if care is consistent, and weaker attachments will form with frequent/long separations. The strength of the monotropic relationships can be seen in safe base behaviour. infants with good attachments will use their mother as a base to explore their environment but will show distress if their mum disappears or if a stranger approaches.