Attachment Theory examines how the bond (attachment) formed between an infant and a primary caregiver influences a person’s emotional development and relationships throughout life. Proposed by John Bowlby and expanded by Mary Ainsworth.
Key Points:
- Attachment Styles:
- Secure: Comfortable with intimacy and autonomy
- Anxious/Ambivalent: Fearful of abandonment, seeks constant reassurance
- Avoidant: Emotionally distant, mistrustful of close relationships
- Disorganized: Lack of clear strategy for coping, often linked to trauma
- Adult Relationships: Patterns from childhood often manifest in adult relationships, influencing communication, conflict resolution, and emotional security.
- Therapy Application: Understanding one’s attachment style can guide relationship counseling and personal growth.
