Ever wondered why some people form close relationships easily whilst... Show more
Psychology606 views·Updated Jun 1, 2026·8 pagesComprehensive Notes on Attachment for AQA A-Level Psychology
Kayleigh Jones@kayleighjones_phvq
1 / 8
1
of 8
Early Infant Interactions and Attachment Formation
Your first relationships begin way earlier than you might think - attachment is a two-way emotional bond that starts forming within months of birth. Maccoby identified key characteristics like seeking proximity (wanting to be close), separation anxiety, and pleasure when reunited with caregivers.
Reciprocity describes the two-way interactions between caregiver and child, whilst interactional synchrony involves simultaneous, coordinated movements and communications. Think of it like an emotional dance where both partners mirror each other's expressions and responses.
Babies use natural abilities like mimicking facial expressions and responding to motherese to form these crucial early bonds. These interactions aren't just cute - they're building the foundation for all future relationships.
Key Point: Filmed observations show that babies actively participate in attachment formation through social behaviours, proving it's not just about feeding but emotional connection.
2
of 8
Schaffer and Emerson's Stages of Attachment
Attachment doesn't happen overnight - it develops through four distinct stages. Pre-attachment sees similar responses to objects and people, followed by indiscriminate attachment where babies prefer humans but aren't fussy about who.
The crucial specific attachment stage is when babies show clear preference for one caregiver and display separation anxiety. Finally, multiple attachments develop as babies form bonds with several people.
Research shows 75% of babies are attached to their father by 18 months, though there's ongoing debate about the father's role. Some studies suggest fathers are more like playmates, whilst others show they can be primary attachment figures when circumstances require it.
Key Point: These stages were identified through studying 1960s Glasgow families, so results might not apply universally across different cultures and time periods.
3
of 8
Animal Studies: Lorenz and Harlow
Lorenz's geese study revealed imprinting - a critical period where young animals form attachments to moving objects. Goslings who hatched in incubators followed Lorenz around instead of their mothers, showing attachment isn't just about survival needs.
Harlow's monkey experiments challenged the idea that attachment is simply about food. Baby monkeys spent most time with soft cloth surrogate mothers rather than wire ones that provided food, only visiting the wire mother when hungry.
These studies revolutionised our understanding of attachment, showing that comfort and emotional security matter more than just meeting physical needs. However, the monkeys who grew up with surrogates struggled as parents themselves, highlighting the importance of proper early care.
Key Point: Whilst animal studies provide valuable insights, human attachment is far more complex, so we must be cautious about directly applying these findings to people.
4
of 8
Learning Theory vs Bowlby's Monotropic Theory
Learning theory suggests attachment develops through association - babies learn to associate caregivers with food and comfort through classical and operant conditioning. This "cupboard love" theory emphasises feeding as the foundation of attachment.
Bowlby's monotropic theory argues for something deeper - babies are biologically programmed to form one primary attachment using social releasers (crying, smiling, cooing) to attract care. This creates an internal working model that templates all future relationships.
The critical period (up to 2.5 years) and continuity hypothesis suggest that consistent, predictable care leads to secure attachments and better later relationships. However, this theory places enormous pressure on mothers and may underestimate fathers' roles.
Key Point: Evidence from Schaffer and Emerson shows babies often attach to non-feeding caregivers, supporting Bowlby over learning theory explanations.
5
of 8
The Strange Situation and Attachment Types
Ainsworth's Strange Situation uses standardised observations to measure attachment quality through babies' responses to separation and reunion with caregivers. This controlled environment reveals three main attachment types.
Secure attachment (about 66% of babies) shows moderate distress when separated but accepts comfort on reunion. Insecure-avoidant children show little separation anxiety and avoid contact when reunited. Insecure-resistant babies display high anxiety and resist comfort despite seeking it.
Cross-cultural research found secure attachment is most common globally, though proportions vary. Japan showed high insecure-resistant rates (possibly because separation is unusual there), whilst Germany had high insecure-avoidant rates.
Key Point: The Strange Situation might be culturally biased since it was developed using American samples and assumes separation scenarios are universally meaningful.
6
of 8
Maternal Deprivation Theory
Bowlby's maternal deprivation theory argues that continuous relationships with mothers are essential for healthy psychological development. He distinguished between deprivation (losing an existing attachment) and privation (never forming one), with privation having more severe effects.
His 44 thieves study found links between early maternal separation and later emotional problems, including affectionless psychopathy - the inability to feel guilt or form meaningful relationships. However, this research relied on potentially unreliable retrospective accounts.
The theory transformed childcare practices, particularly in hospitals where parent visits were previously discouraged. The critical period concept suggests that prolonged separations in the first 2.5 years can cause lasting emotional, social, and intellectual difficulties.
Key Point: Modern research suggests the quality of substitute care matters more than separation itself - high-quality alternative caregiving can prevent many negative outcomes.
7
of 8
Institutionalisation and Romanian Orphan Studies
Institutionalisation research, particularly Rutter's studies of Romanian orphans, reveals the severe effects of early privation. Children adopted from Romanian institutions showed intellectual disabilities, delayed language development, and disinhibited attachment - being overly friendly with strangers.
The timing of adoption proved crucial - children adopted before 6 months had average IQs of 102, whilst those adopted after 2 years averaged just 77. Many continued showing signs of disinhibited attachment even at age 11.
Effects include quasi-dwarfism, impaired peer relationships, and loss of personal identity. However, longitudinal studies show that with quality care and time, some effects can be reversed, particularly if intervention occurs early.
Key Point: Romanian orphanages had extremely poor conditions including malnutrition and lack of stimulation, so results might not generalise to all institutional care settings.
8
of 8
The Influence of Early Attachment on Later Relationships
Your early attachment experiences create an internal working model that serves as a template for all future relationships. Research shows securely attached children form better quality friendships and have healthier romantic relationships in adulthood.
In childhood, securely attached kids balance closeness with independence, whilst insecurely attached children either become overly clingy or excessively independent. Studies found insecure-avoidant children are more likely to be bullied, whilst insecure-resistant children often become bullies themselves.
Adult research reveals that parenting styles pass across generations - securely attached mothers tend to raise securely attached children. However, the temperament hypothesis suggests innate personality might influence attachment quality, making it difficult to establish clear cause and effect.
Key Point: Recovery is possible even after severe early deprivation, as shown by the Czech twins who overcame horrific early experiences to lead normal adult lives with proper intervention.
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Psychology606 views·Updated Jun 1, 2026·8 pagesComprehensive Notes on Attachment for AQA A-Level Psychology
Kayleigh Jones@kayleighjones_phvq
Ever wondered why some people form close relationships easily whilst others struggle with intimacy? Attachment theory explains how our earliest bonds with caregivers shape our entire approach to relationships throughout life.
1
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Early Infant Interactions and Attachment Formation
Your first relationships begin way earlier than you might think - attachment is a two-way emotional bond that starts forming within months of birth. Maccoby identified key characteristics like seeking proximity (wanting to be close), separation anxiety, and pleasure when reunited with caregivers.
Reciprocity describes the two-way interactions between caregiver and child, whilst interactional synchrony involves simultaneous, coordinated movements and communications. Think of it like an emotional dance where both partners mirror each other's expressions and responses.
Babies use natural abilities like mimicking facial expressions and responding to motherese to form these crucial early bonds. These interactions aren't just cute - they're building the foundation for all future relationships.
Key Point: Filmed observations show that babies actively participate in attachment formation through social behaviours, proving it's not just about feeding but emotional connection.
2
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
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Schaffer and Emerson's Stages of Attachment
Attachment doesn't happen overnight - it develops through four distinct stages. Pre-attachment sees similar responses to objects and people, followed by indiscriminate attachment where babies prefer humans but aren't fussy about who.
The crucial specific attachment stage is when babies show clear preference for one caregiver and display separation anxiety. Finally, multiple attachments develop as babies form bonds with several people.
Research shows 75% of babies are attached to their father by 18 months, though there's ongoing debate about the father's role. Some studies suggest fathers are more like playmates, whilst others show they can be primary attachment figures when circumstances require it.
Key Point: These stages were identified through studying 1960s Glasgow families, so results might not apply universally across different cultures and time periods.
3
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
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Animal Studies: Lorenz and Harlow
Lorenz's geese study revealed imprinting - a critical period where young animals form attachments to moving objects. Goslings who hatched in incubators followed Lorenz around instead of their mothers, showing attachment isn't just about survival needs.
Harlow's monkey experiments challenged the idea that attachment is simply about food. Baby monkeys spent most time with soft cloth surrogate mothers rather than wire ones that provided food, only visiting the wire mother when hungry.
These studies revolutionised our understanding of attachment, showing that comfort and emotional security matter more than just meeting physical needs. However, the monkeys who grew up with surrogates struggled as parents themselves, highlighting the importance of proper early care.
Key Point: Whilst animal studies provide valuable insights, human attachment is far more complex, so we must be cautious about directly applying these findings to people.
4
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
Learning Theory vs Bowlby's Monotropic Theory
Learning theory suggests attachment develops through association - babies learn to associate caregivers with food and comfort through classical and operant conditioning. This "cupboard love" theory emphasises feeding as the foundation of attachment.
Bowlby's monotropic theory argues for something deeper - babies are biologically programmed to form one primary attachment using social releasers (crying, smiling, cooing) to attract care. This creates an internal working model that templates all future relationships.
The critical period (up to 2.5 years) and continuity hypothesis suggest that consistent, predictable care leads to secure attachments and better later relationships. However, this theory places enormous pressure on mothers and may underestimate fathers' roles.
Key Point: Evidence from Schaffer and Emerson shows babies often attach to non-feeding caregivers, supporting Bowlby over learning theory explanations.
5
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
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The Strange Situation and Attachment Types
Ainsworth's Strange Situation uses standardised observations to measure attachment quality through babies' responses to separation and reunion with caregivers. This controlled environment reveals three main attachment types.
Secure attachment (about 66% of babies) shows moderate distress when separated but accepts comfort on reunion. Insecure-avoidant children show little separation anxiety and avoid contact when reunited. Insecure-resistant babies display high anxiety and resist comfort despite seeking it.
Cross-cultural research found secure attachment is most common globally, though proportions vary. Japan showed high insecure-resistant rates (possibly because separation is unusual there), whilst Germany had high insecure-avoidant rates.
Key Point: The Strange Situation might be culturally biased since it was developed using American samples and assumes separation scenarios are universally meaningful.
6
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
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Maternal Deprivation Theory
Bowlby's maternal deprivation theory argues that continuous relationships with mothers are essential for healthy psychological development. He distinguished between deprivation (losing an existing attachment) and privation (never forming one), with privation having more severe effects.
His 44 thieves study found links between early maternal separation and later emotional problems, including affectionless psychopathy - the inability to feel guilt or form meaningful relationships. However, this research relied on potentially unreliable retrospective accounts.
The theory transformed childcare practices, particularly in hospitals where parent visits were previously discouraged. The critical period concept suggests that prolonged separations in the first 2.5 years can cause lasting emotional, social, and intellectual difficulties.
Key Point: Modern research suggests the quality of substitute care matters more than separation itself - high-quality alternative caregiving can prevent many negative outcomes.
7
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
Institutionalisation and Romanian Orphan Studies
Institutionalisation research, particularly Rutter's studies of Romanian orphans, reveals the severe effects of early privation. Children adopted from Romanian institutions showed intellectual disabilities, delayed language development, and disinhibited attachment - being overly friendly with strangers.
The timing of adoption proved crucial - children adopted before 6 months had average IQs of 102, whilst those adopted after 2 years averaged just 77. Many continued showing signs of disinhibited attachment even at age 11.
Effects include quasi-dwarfism, impaired peer relationships, and loss of personal identity. However, longitudinal studies show that with quality care and time, some effects can be reversed, particularly if intervention occurs early.
Key Point: Romanian orphanages had extremely poor conditions including malnutrition and lack of stimulation, so results might not generalise to all institutional care settings.
8
of 8Sign up to see the content. It's free!
- Access to all documents
- Improve your grades
- Join milions of students
The Influence of Early Attachment on Later Relationships
Your early attachment experiences create an internal working model that serves as a template for all future relationships. Research shows securely attached children form better quality friendships and have healthier romantic relationships in adulthood.
In childhood, securely attached kids balance closeness with independence, whilst insecurely attached children either become overly clingy or excessively independent. Studies found insecure-avoidant children are more likely to be bullied, whilst insecure-resistant children often become bullies themselves.
Adult research reveals that parenting styles pass across generations - securely attached mothers tend to raise securely attached children. However, the temperament hypothesis suggests innate personality might influence attachment quality, making it difficult to establish clear cause and effect.
Key Point: Recovery is possible even after severe early deprivation, as shown by the Czech twins who overcame horrific early experiences to lead normal adult lives with proper intervention.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content: Attachment
9Most popular content in Psychology
9Most popular content
9Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan SiOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha KlichAndroid user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
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