What is attachment theory?

Attachment theory is a psychological model which aims to explain how early life experiences may affect interpersonal relationships. It suggests that the availability and responses of a caregiver to a child in early life affects how the child responds to adversity in the future.Within this theory, there are 4 broad attachment types:Secure Attachment - occurs when the caregiver is available, supportive and reliable. Securely attached children tend to be well adjusted, are able to respond to adversity positively and can build positive, reciprocal relationships with others. The other 3 attachment types are thought to occur when care is inconsistent, neglectful or insensitive.Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment - is displayed as anxiety at separation from the caregiver which is not resolved upon their return.Anxious-Avoidant Attachment - is displayed as avoidance of the caregiver altogether.Disorganised Attachment - children display no attachment behaviour at all.These 3 'insecure' attachment types are considered suboptimal and are thought to be related to impaired school performance, poor interpersonal relationships and mental health difficulties later in life.