13.5: Attachment

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Learning Objectives

Define attachment and explain its role in infant development.
Describe the characteristics of a secure attachment and how it is formed.

Attachment in infancy refers to the emotional bond that develops between an infant and their primary caregiver(s), which serves as the foundation for the child's social and emotional development. This bond is critical because it provides the infant with a sense of security and comfort, especially in times of stress or uncertainty. Secure attachment forms when a caregiver consistently responds to the infant's physical, emotional, and social needs, creating a safe and reliable environment (Ainsworth, 1979). Although mothers are typically seen as the primary attachment figures, infants can also develop secure attachments to other caregivers, such as fathers, grandparents, or non-parental caregivers, as long as these relationships are characterized by warmth, responsiveness, and consistency (Bowlby, 1969). These early attachments play a crucial role in the child’s ability to form healthy relationships throughout life and contribute to overall emotional well-being (Rothbaum, Weisz, Pott, Miyake, & Morelli, 2000).

Father holding his twin newborns

Figure $\PageIndex{1}$. The formation of attachment in action as a father snuggles newborn twins. $13.5.1. 1$ $13.5.1. 1$

As previously discussed, Erikson agreed on the importance of a secure base, arguing that the most important goal of infancy was the development of a basic sense of trust in one’s caregivers. Consequently, the first stage, trust vs. mistrust, highlights the importance of attachment. Erikson maintained that the first year to year and a half of life involves the establishment of a sense of trust (Erikson, 1982).

References, Contributors and Attributions

Ainsworth, M. D. S. (1979). Infant-mother attachment. American Psychologist, 34(10), 932–937. https://doi.org/10.1037/0003-066X.34.10.932

Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and loss: Volume 1. Attachment. Basic Books.

Erikson, E. H. (1982). The life cycle completed. Norton & Company.

Rothbaum, F., Weisz, J. R., Pott, M., Miyake, K., & Morelli, G. (2000). Attachment and culture: The interplay of child and family influences. Developmental Psychology, 36(5), 530–539. https://doi.org/10.1037/0012-1649.36.5.530

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