Attachment theory explores how infants form emotional bonds with their caregivers, which shapes their social and emotional development throughout life.
Schaffer and Emerson's groundbreaking 1964 study identified distinct stages of attachment development in infants. They observed that babies progress from an indiscriminate stage where they accept attention from anyone, to specific attachments with primary caregivers around 7-8 months. Their research revealed that by 18 months, most children form multiple attachments with various family members and close contacts. This work fundamentally shaped our understanding of how attachments develop sequentially rather than appearing suddenly.
The foundational animal studies by Harlow and Lorenz provided crucial insights into attachment formation. Harlow's famous monkey experiments in 1958 demonstrated that infant monkeys preferred comfort from a soft cloth surrogate mother over a wire mother that provided food, highlighting the importance of contact comfort in forming attachments. Lorenz's research on imprinting in geese showed how young animals form rapid, instinctive bonds with the first moving object they see after hatching - typically their mother. These animal studies revolutionized our understanding of attachment by showing it goes beyond simply meeting physical needs. The research has important implications for child development and parenting practices, though ethical concerns have been raised about the treatment of animal subjects. Modern attachment psychology continues to build on these classical studies, examining how early attachment patterns influence relationships, emotional regulation, and mental health throughout life. Understanding these concepts is crucial for students studying A Level Psychology, as attachment theory remains a cornerstone of developmental psychology and has practical applications in childcare, education, and therapeutic settings.
