Theory of Attachment

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the theory of attachment, an idea the author describes as introducing new meanings to human relationship. The proposition that, to thrive emotionally, children need a close and continuous care-giving relationship required theoretical explanation. The author further analyzes Bowlby's approach to the concept of attachment. Although never satisfied with the theory of dependence, which focused on human relations progressing through fulfillment of basic needs, his methodical research manifested the theory of attachment, which highlighted the importance of care-giving and care-taking responses more than primary needs of hunger and sex.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
Bowlby's Theory of Attachment
Animal Behavior Studies
Bowlby's Analysis of Animal Studies.
Extension of Bowlby's Attachment Theory
Conclusions

From the Paper:

"According to attachment theory, attachment is not just an outcome of the need to satisfy various drives, like Sigmund Freud thought. For example, children are not just attached to their parents because they provide food; their attachment also involves behavior that is independent of their direct needs. Attachment theory assumes that humans are social beings; they do not just use other people to satisfy their drives. In this way, attachment theory is similar to object relations' theory (Grohol, 2005)."

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