ATTACHMENT THEORY

ASSIGNMENT
HPSY62416

SOL PLAATJE UNIVERSITY

Philasande Charlotte Lungile Mthembu (202319559)
Table of Content

1. Introduction

2. Definition and Explanation of Attachment Theory

3. Personal Attachment Style Assessment

4. History of Attachment Theory

5. Stages of Attachment

6. Four Attachment Styles

7. Improving Interpersonal Relationships Based on Attachment Style

8. Conclusion

9. References

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INTRODUCTION:

Attachment theory is a theory that is used to explain the emotional bonds formed
between individuals. Leading to the formation of a relationship between individuals
which is the child and the caregiver, as well as a romantic partner. Attachment theory
was developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth as they explain the long-term
relationships and bonds between social beings. However, it was famously developed by
British psychologist John Bowlby in the mid-20th century, he argues that people are born
with the need for attachments to form emotional connections with their caregivers and to
survive. These bonds play a crucial role in the social, emotional, and psychological
development of an individual. Bowlby further argued that how the caregiver responds to
a child's needs is a foundation for shaping their attachment style, this early experience
with their caregivers or parent will form a foundation for their ability to successfully
maintain a “secure attachment” as they grow older. This essay critically evaluates the
attachment theory, looking at historical developments, stages, influencing factors, and
lasting impact on adult relationships (Bowlby, 1995).

DEFINITION AND EXPLANATION OF ATTACHMENT THEORY:

According to Bretherton during the formation of attachment theory infants need a

primary caregiver to develop normally, both emotionally and socially. This ensures that
the infant has a “secure attachment” leading to the willingness to explore the world.
Knowing they have a safe space and emotional support from a caregiver. This
emphasizes that children who experience such warmth from their parents develop what
Bowlby called a “secure base.” Allowing them to be confident, have a healthy mental
and capacity to form good relationships and maintain them (Bretherton, 1992).

PERSONAL ATTACHMENT STYLE ASSESSMENT

I completed an attachment-style quiz, which identified that I have a “secure attachment-

style.” These results deeply resonate with my personal experience. Throughout my life, I
have a stable and supportive relationship with my friends and family. I feel comfortable
asking others for help, and equally, being supportive of them. For example, my close
friendships are all built on trust and mutual respect. These are characteristics that align

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with a secure attachment style. In a romantic relationship, it is not difficult for me to
voice my needs and emotions, and my partner healthily reciprocates this behavior. This
indeed balance between dependence and independence is a hallmark of secure
attachment, which enables one to thrive in the relationship without fear of rejection or
abandonment (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2016).

I agree with the quiz results because they align with my upbringing. My mother was
emotionally available, consistent, and supportive of me. No matter what she always
managed to secure a good relationship with me. This early attachment security has
translated into my adulthood. Where maintain healthy and fulfilling relationships. I
support the argument that children who experience sensitive and responsive caregiving
are more likely to be secure as adults and have greater emotional resilience and
emotional intelligence(Cassidy&Shaver,2016).

HISTORY OF ATTACHMENT:

The attachment theory has a rich history that has changed and evolved over the years.
John Bowlby was the first to formulate this theory, observing while working with children
who were separated from their parents during World War II. He also realized that
children who lacked consistent caregiving displayed emotional distress and
developmental issues. These early observations led to the conclusion that bonds
between caregivers and children are crucial for healthy and emotional development.
Mary Ainsworth later expanded on Bowlby’s work with her “Strange Situation”
experiment. This identified different attachment styles based on how infants responded
to both separations and reunions with their primary caregivers (Ainsworth, Blehar,
Water, & Wall, 1978). Ainsworth’s work plays a crucial role in classifying attachment into
categories of secure, avoidance, ambivalent, and disorganized attachment others of
which were later added by researchers.

STAGES OF ATTACHMENT

The attachment process goes through numerous stages during infancy and childhood.
In the beginning, infants have difficulties when it comes to differentiating between

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caregivers and will accept comfort from anyone. Over time, however, they learn and
begin to show a preference for their primary caregiver, or the one who frequently
responds to their needs. As they grow older, children develop a more reciprocal
relationship with their parents, comprehending that relationships are not one-sided but
also involve mutual exchange (Sroufe, 2005). This ultimately influences their adult stage
and their attachment style.

Numeral factors influence attachment styles, including the caregiver’s behavior, the
child’s behavior or temperaments, and cultural context. Emotionally available and
responsive parents are most likely to foster a secure attachment. In contrast,
inconsistent and neglectful parents lead to insecure attachment. Temperaments also
play a crucial role their children who are naturally more irritable or anxious from birth,
many with such qualities have difficulties in forming secured attachments, even with
their primary caregivers (Kagan, 1984), importantly culture also affects attachment
styles, as caregiving is practiced differently in various societies. For example, in cultures
where independence is emphasized, children are most likely to develop an avoidant
attachment style, as they are encouraged by their caregivers to be more self-reliant
from an early age (Rothbaum et al., 2000)

Early attachment has a profound impact on adult life. Research continuously shows that
people with secured attachments are more likely to be better equipped when it comes to
managing stress and forming healthy relationships with the high possibility of regulating
emotions (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2016). In contrast, those with insecure attachment may
struggle with intimacy, fear abandonment, or even avoid closeness and romantic
relationships. For instance, individuals with avoidance attachment may have difficulties
forming close relationships because they prefer emotional distance, and they are
uncomfortable with intimacy. This could lead to a reluctance to commit or engage
emotionally (Feeney, 2008).

FOUR ATTACHMENT STYLES:

Attachment theory identifies four primary attachment styles: secure, anxious-

preoccupied, avoidant-dismissive lastly fearful-avoidance (disorganized). Research
shows that secure-attached individuals are comfortable with intimacy and are more
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trusting, while those with anxious-preoccupied styles tend to be overly dependent on
others, fearing rejection and seeking constant validation. Avoidant-dismissive individuals
mostly prefer to be emotionally distant and value independence over closeness, they
dislike depending on other people. Lastly, fearful-avoidance individuals often experience
conflicting desires for both intimacy and rejection, which leads to emotional turbulence
in a relationship (Bartholomew & Horowitz, 1991). It is crucial to note that these
attachment styles are shaped by our early experiences or childhood but can change
over time, more especially through new, positive relationship experiences.

IMPROVING INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIP BASED ON ATTACHMENT

Given that I identify with a secure attachment style. I have learned that there are
numerous strategies I can adopt in regard to enhancing and improving my interpersonal
relationships further. First, continuing to nurture trust in my relationships by being more
open and honest. Communication is important in any relationship and could form an
attachment. However, trust is the foundation of any good relationship, and maintaining
transparency helps avoid misunderstandings or feelings of betrayal. Second, improving
my emotional intelligence by being aware of my emotions and other's emotions. By
recognizing and validating emotion, I can foster a stronger emotional connection. Third,
active listening is important for improving relationships. By genuinely listening to others
with no judgment or interruption, I can better understand their needs and perspectives
on a deeper level which strengthens our bonds. Fourth, practicing empathy and allowing
me to connect with others and understand their emotions, feelings, and experiences.
Lastly, maintaining healthy boundaries that foster respect that I need as well as
balancing closeness with personal autonomy.

CONCLUSION:

In conclusion, attachment theory provides valuable and important insights into how early
childhood experiences shape adult relationships. My secure attachment style, as
confirmed by the quiz, reflects my positive and supportive relationship experienced in
childhood, and continues to influence my adult life. Attachment theory, with its roots in

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Bowlby’s and Ainsworth's research, remains a crucial framework for understanding
emotional development and relational dynamics.

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References:

Ainsworth, M., Blehar, M., Waters, E. & Wall, S., (1978). Patterns of Attachment: A
Psychological Study of the Strange Situation. New York: Lawrence Erlbaum.

Bartholomew, K. and Horowitz, L. M. (1991). Attachment styles among young adults: A

test of a four-category model. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 61(2), 226–
244.

Bowlby, J., (1969). Attachment and Loss: Vol. 1. Attachment. New York: Basic Books.

Bretherton, I., (1992). The origins of attachment theory: John Bowlby and Mary
Ainsworth. Developmental Psychology, 28(5), 759–775.

Cassidy, J. and Shaver, P. R., (2016). Handbook of Attachment: Theory, Research, and
Clinical Applications 3rd ed. New York: Guilford Press.

Feeney, J. A. (2008). Adult romantic attachment: Developments in the study of couple

relationships. The Science of Relationships: Answers to Your Questions about Dating,
Marriage, and Family, 33–52.

Kagan, J. (1984). The Nature of the Child. New York: Basic Books.

Mikulincer, M., & Shaver, P. R. (2016). Attachment in Adulthood: Structure, Dynamics,

and Change. New York: Guilford Press.

Rothbaum, F., Weisz, J. R., Pott, M., Miyake, K., & Morelli, G. (2000). Attachment and
culture: Security in the United States and Japan. American Psychologist, 55(10), 1093–
1104.

Sroufe, L. A. (2005). Attachment and Development: A Prospective Longitudinal Study

from Birth to Adulthood. New York: Guilford Press.