Explanations of Attachment: Bowlby’s Theory Flashcards
(11 cards)
What does Bowlby’s theory suggest about the nature of attachment?
Attachment is innate and has evolutionary value to aid survival.
What is meant by ‘monotropy’ in Bowlby’s theory?
The idea that babies form one special attachment (usually to the mother) which is more important than others.
What are Bowlby’s two laws related to monotropy?
Law of Continuity: More constant care leads to better attachment.
Law of Accumulated Separation: Every separation adds up and affects attachment negatively.
What are social releasers according to Bowlby?
Innate infant behaviors (e.g., smiling, crying) that trigger caregiving responses in adults.
What is the critical period in Bowlby’s theory?
Attachment must form within about 2.5 years, or it becomes much harder to form them later.
What is the internal working model?
A mental framework based on the first attachment that shapes future relationships and views of self and others.
What is a limitation of Bowlby’s monotropy concept?
Not all babies form one special attachment; other caregivers can provide strong bonds.
What study supports the role of social releasers?
Brazelton et al. (1975) – babies became distressed and motionless when social releasers were ignored.
What research supports Bowlby’s internal working model?
Bailey et al. (2007) – poor attachments in mothers were linked to poor attachments with their own babies.
What is a counterpoint regarding social development?
Social development can be influenced by genetics and parenting style, not just attachment.
What are the feminist concerns about Bowlby’s theory?
It implies mothers shouldn’t work, placing unfair pressure on them (e.g., Burman, 1994).
