Attachment Theory

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.