What are the types of Attachment Theory by John Bowlby?

1 Answer
Oct 6, 2016

There were four main points to his theory. It's been quite a while since I've read/studied it, but here's what I've got.

Explanation:

Point One
A Child has an innate (I.E Inborn) need to attach to one main attachment figure (I.E. Monotropy)

Point Two
A Child should receive the continuous care of this single most important attachment figure for the first two years of life (Usually the mother)

Also something noteworthy here, Bowlby claimed that mothering is practically useless if delayed until after two to three years, and for most, if delayed after 12 months. (I.E there is a very critical period)

Point Three Long term consequences of maternal deprivation may include the following.

Delinquency
Reduced Intelligence
Increased aggression
Depression
Affectionless psychopathy

Point Four
Believe that short term separtion from an attachment figure leads to distress.

Which is the PDD model which they found three progressive stages of distress listed below.

Protest - The Child cries; screams and protests when said parent/caregiver leaves. Clinging onto the parent/caregiver to attempt to stop them leaving.

Despair - The child protesting begins to stop and appear to be calmer, yet still upset. Often seems withdrawn and uninterested in anything.

Detachment - If the separation continues the child will start to engage with others again. They reject the caregiver on their return and show strong signs of anger.

Hope this helps.