Summary Of Attachment Theory

One of the most commonly known attachment theories was proposed by Bowlby in the late 1960s (Berk, 2012, p. 428). Bowlby collaborated with many in order to research the development of attachment between a child and caregiver from birth on (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 161). Since then, theorists have agreed that the forming of attachment and its patterns occurs in stages beginning at one’s birth and continuing throughout childhood (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 162). These specifics of attachment development are crucial not only for parents and caretakers, but also physicians, psychologists and counselors due to the influence of early attachment on one’s future relationships and overall wellbeing (Berk, 2012, p. 431-434). The forming of attachments with caretakers, who do not have to be the parents, comes naturally to children (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 164). Nevertheless, not all attachments are equal in quality which caused the proposal of the four patterns of attachment that are observable through testing (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 164). Presumably, the pattern of secure attachment is the most favorable one because infants feel comfortable and secure around their caregiver as well as during times of separation (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 164-165). In this scenario, parents and/or caregivers are attentive while conveying dependability …show more content…
165). Researchers have found that dismissive caregivers instill a sense of uncertainty in children as well as the expectation that specific needs may not be met (Newman & Newman, 2015, p. 165). Overall, infants who formed an anxious-avoidant attachment generally have experienced less loving and nurturing situations as compared to those who are securely attached (Newman & Newman, 2015, p.