Evaluation: Bowlby's theory

Question 1

What is the 1st strength to Bowlby’s theory?

Answer 1

Attachment is adaptive:
- Our distant ancestors = attachment is vital after they are born

• E.g monkeys cling on mothers fur
• When human infants start crawling = attachment is vital
• Supports Bowlby’s view attachment is adaptive.

Question 2

What is the 2nd strength to Bowlby’s theory?

Answer 2

Multiple attachment vs Monotropy:
- Both models not so different

• Secondary attachment do contribute to social development
• Healthy development = requires primary attachment
• Supports Bowlby’s concept of monotropy

Question 3

What is the 3rd strength to Bowlby’s theory?

Answer 3

Supporting the continuity hypothesis:
- Sroufe et al (2005)

• Study tested participants from infancy - late adolescence
• Found continuity between early & later emotional/social behaviour
• Supports continuity hypothesis because there is a link between early & later attachment.