Attachment Theory

Attachment may be defined in psychological terms as the bonding and relationship between humans. The attachment theory is based on ethological, evolutionary and psychological theories. 

A child needs a caregiver to ensure that the development of his personality and social behavioral patterns are normal. Attachment is formed when someone is responsive and sensitive during social interactions. Attachments formed at young ages define the way a person prefers to attach or detach from people at later stages of life. 

The attachment theory explains that attachments begin from the phase of infancy till adulthood. Adults reciprocate attachment and gain trust. But for children the theory explains that the mother is the main attachment figure. The attachment of an infant to a mother can be explained by the satisfaction of his basic need i.e hunger. 

Attachment theory also explains that the attachments need not be formed only due to regular social interactions but can also be formed on the basis of situational reactions. However becoming attached on situational response is not characteristic of infants.  

The attachment of infants is very different from that of children. Children through the phase of growing up lose the characteristic features of attachment and begin developing a personality or tendency. But what cannot be overlooked is the fact that parents remain to be the primary attachment figure, even when children spend a large part of their time away from parents in schools. 

As the child grows the attachments he forms with his peers become a crucial factor in development because the child begins to take independent decisions and this is the period when situational reactions begin working. 

A child can form an attachment with anyone, even to someone who mistreats them. Attachment theory does not predict unique patterns. 

Principles from the Attachment theory have also been used to draw out programs against child abuse. 

Questions:

• Does attachment begin at a physical or mental level?
• Does attachment to certain objects affect a person’s thinking pattern?