Attachment: Individual Differences Attachment is not an ‘all or nothing’ process There may be variations between children in the attachments they form

Ainsworth & Bell (1971) Controlled observation of children’s attachment behaviour using the ‘Strange Situation Classification’ (SSC): Mother leaves child in unfamiliar environment Child is approached by stranger Mother returns Looks at separation protest, stranger anxiety and reunion behaviour

Ainsworth & Bell (1971) Three patterns of attachment: Secure (70% of sample) Insecure – avoidant (20%) Insecure – resistant (10%) Ainsworth suggested that attachment type was determined by primary carer’s (mother’s) behaviour

Ainsworth & Bell (1971) Secure attachment Upset/subdued when mother left Positive/happy when she returned Avoidant of stranger but friendly when mother present Associated with sensitive & responsive primary care

Ainsworth & Bell (1971) Insecure –avoidant Unconcerned by mother’s absence Unresponsive when she returned Strongly avoidant of mother and stranger Associated with unresponsive primary care

Ainsworth & Bell (1971) Insecure – resistant Intensely distressed when mother left Apparent fear of stranger Clinginess mixed with rejection on return Associated with inconsistent primary care

SecureAvoidantResistant Primary Carer’s Behaviour Towards Child Child’s ‘Working Model’ of Itself Positive & LovedUnloved & Rejected Angry & Confused