Topic > Research Article - 1907

Attachment as described by John Bowlby is the "affective" bond that develops between a child and the primary caregiver (usually) the mother (Daniel 2005). This attachment suggests some evolutionary survival functions and to fully understand attachment theory it should be known that the quality of attachment can be loosely classified as secure attachment and insecure attachment. The quality of the child's attachment to the caregiver is due partly to the "synchrony" between the two and partly to the caregiver's state of mind (Daniel 2005; pangnam 2014). Attachment relationships between infants and caregivers begin at birth and develop over time, and the basic need to eat sets the stage for secure attachment as the infant feels a sense of security and warmth while being fed (usually by the mother). also an attachment whoever feeds it' (McLeod 2009). The caregiver also develops an emotional bond with the child as he responds sensitively to his needs (pangnam 2014). Studies conducted by John Bowlby on child development and “Temperament” suggest that secure attachment to a caregiver provides a necessary sense of safety and security (McLeod 2009). The child displays some behaviors such as stranger anxiety, separation anxiety and social referencing as a consequence of attachment (pangnam 2014). Such behaviors suggest the need for secure attachment. Research conducted on attachment has shown that a secure attachment to a caregiver protects the child from social and emotional “maladjustment”. Children with insecure attachment and maladaptive adaptations are more vulnerable to stress, problems controlling negative emotions, and display hostile, aggressive, and poor social skills (Benoit 2004). ...... middle of paper ...... ligaments are greatly affected so the child is vulnerable to both developmental and physical problems. “If an attachment has not developed by the time the child is 5 years old or younger, the child will suffer irreversible developmental consequences, such as reduced intelligence and increased aggression” (McLeod 2009). Adults should be informed about the consequences of not dedicating time to self-care and this affects children. Parents who have taken care of themselves after divorce are better able to improve the quality of parent-child relationships because it is an important factor determining the long-term effects of divorce on children (Clark 2013; Sandler 2012). Research has shown that high quality parenting (combination of warmth and discipline) and active involvement in the child's life improves adjustment to divorce (Sandler).