The development of a secure base Attachment theory The development of a secure base
Attachment theory John Bowlby (1953) A child’s strong attachment to a main carer is essential for healthy emotional development. A secure attachment: creates a safe haven for protect from danger provides a secure base to explore from strongly influences early personality, organisation and the child's concept of self. © Pearson Education Ltd 2016. Copying permitted for purchasing institution only.
First year attachment cycle Developing a positive ‘internal working model’, John Bowlby (1953) Infant has needs Needs are expressed Needs are fulfilled Relief and relaxation © Pearson Education Ltd 2016. Copying permitted for purchasing institution only.
Developing a healthy attachment Carer: Providing a consistent structure. Responding with attunement and empathy (responding to the child’s needs). Providing positive emotional responses (nurture, physical contact, warmth and communication). Showing love and caring commitment. (Ref. Levy, T., Attachment, Trauma and Healing: Understanding and Treating Attachment Disorder in Children and Families, Child Welfare League of America, 1998) © Pearson Education Ltd 2016. Copying permitted for purchasing institution only.
Attachment disorder Contributing factors Parents/carers abuse, neglect, abandonment (taken into care) depression, mental illness, substance abuse family history (attachment difficulties, separation, loss) Child premature, medical conditions, hospitalisation, failure to thrive difficult temperament, prolonged infantile colic Environmental poverty violence stress © Pearson Education Ltd 2016. Copying permitted for purchasing institution only.