Outline Bowlby’s evolutionary theory of Attachment

According to Bowlby, attachment is an innate behavioural system that has evolved because of its survival value. Bowlby posits a ‘sensitive period’, during which an infant is particularly sensitive to specific forms of stimulation, which occurs in the second quarter of an infant's first year. It is during this phase that infants develop specific responses and characteristics conducive to developing a maternal-infant attachment. Successful formation of this attachment offers a child a ‘secure base’ from which to explore and develop independence. An infant has biologically programmed behaviours that encourage care-giving reactions known as ‘social releases’ and include smiling, crying and cooing. These social releases are innate and adaptive. Finally, Bowlby suggests that the early primary attachment a child forms goes on to establish an “internal working model’ that enables an individual to predict and control their relational environment and form expectations about long-term romantic relationships. 

CB
Answered by Chloe B. Psychology tutor

3093 Views

See similar Psychology A Level tutors

Related Psychology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Outline one or more ways in which behaviourists treat phobias.


Please explain the three types of data you will need to know for A-Level Psychology. Give examples of each.


Evaluate the multi-store model of memory (4 marks).


Outline a weakness of the behaviorist approach in Psychology


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences