Attachment can be defined as a deep emotional bond between two people in which each seeks closeness and security when in presence of the attachment figure. Speaking of parent-child relationships, attachment behaviour in parents toward the child includes responding sensitively and accurately to the child’s needs and attachment behaviour in children is characterized by their tendencies to seek proximity to the attachment figure when upset or threatened.

Attachment theory is a psychological framework that was originally developed by John Bowlby, a British psychiatrist, in the 1950s and further expanded upon by other researchers such as Mary Ainsworth. It focuses on understanding the nature and importance of the emotional bonds or attachments that develop between infants and their primary caregivers and how that influences subsequent development.

According to attachment theory, infants are biologically predisposed to form attachments as a means of survival and obtaining care. The quality of these early attachments is believed to shape an individual’s emotional and social development throughout their life. The theory suggests that the nature of the attachment relationship between the infant and caregiver influences the child’s cognitive, emotional, and social development, as well as their later relationships and interactions with others.

The theory proposes that there are four main attachment styles:

  1. Secure Attachment: Secure attachment develops when parents/caregivers are available, sensitive, responsive and accepting. In relationships with secure attachment, infants feel safe and confident in their caregiver’s presence. They continually get comfort and support from their caregiver when needed and are also given the freedom to explore their environment independently. As adults, they tend to form trusting and secure relationships.


By now we are able to realise that the quality of the early attachment relationship between a child and their primary caregiver(s) does have a significant impact on the child’s development and later life. Here are some ways in which childhood experiences, as viewed through the lens of attachment theory, can affect an individual’s life:

  1. Emotional and Social Development: Early attachment experiences shape the child’s emotional and social development. A secure attachment provides a foundation for the child to develop trust, emotional regulation, and a positive sense of self. In contrast, insecure attachment styles (anxious-preoccupied, avoidant, or disorganized) can lead to difficulties in emotional regulation, self-esteem, and forming healthy relationships.

It is important to note that while attachment experiences in childhood can have a significant impact, they are not deterministic. Individuals can develop awareness, insight, and skills to modify their attachment patterns and create more secure and fulfilling relationships. Psychotherapy and interventions informed by attachment theory can be helpful in promoting healing and positive development.

Visit us – https://thecambridgeschool.ac.in/

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *