Attachment is considered to be a very close, emotional bond that exists between
ID: 3487097 • Letter: A
Question
Attachment is considered to be a very close, emotional bond that exists between two people. The concept of attachment with regards to infants has many different theories surrounding it.
What is your attachment style?
What are the effects of childcare arrangements on attachment and later development?
What are the effects of caregiving styles and attachment? Do you agree with the research? Explain.
What did Harlow’s research reveal about the important factors underlying attachment?
Can you spoil a child by being affectionate?
What can you do as a parent to improve the likelihood that your baby will have a secure attachment with you?
Explanation / Answer
Harlow was interested in studying the mechanism that binds newborn rhesus monkeys with their mothers. In his study, therefore, he exposed young rhesus monkeys to one clothed mother (made of wood) and another bare-wired mother (made of wire) with a feeding bottle attached. This research study indicated that the infant monkey clung to the towel clothed mother all the time and would approach the wired mother only when needed to be fed. This study made it clear that warmth and constant affection in infancy lead to a stronger bonding between the baby and mother.
Why I Agree with the Research?
Remember, baby’s brains are wired backwards. While an adult can rise to the occasion and become independent when forced to fend and abandoned, a child can’t. Rather the child would become neurotic and anxious, quite possible for the rest of life. On the other hand, when a child receives constant help and support whenever required, he grows up to be independent and highly confident. So, it is recommended that all new moms and fathers give their child as many kisses and hugs as he wants and let him just be when he wants.
Several research studies have indicated that experiences a human has in early (and even prenatal) life may leave lasting effect on his physical and mental health as well as overall personality development. Make sure your child receives positive touch, response, and care throughout infancy and childhood. Attachment theory of Harlow is also centered on the phenomenon of touch and personal bonding with others. How we treat others as we grow up is largely dependent on our own personal experiences during infancy and childhood. If that relationship was least negative, the results can be emotional dependence or toxic relationships in adulthood. It is also noteworthy that children who’ve been away or separated from their mothers (or parents) seek the attachment (sometimes from a wrong or inappropriate person or means) as they grow up.
Hence I agree with the research.
Too Much Affection Would Not Spoil Your Child
Yes, lots of hugs and affection doesn’t spoil your child. In fact, it lays the foundation of a healthier, smarter and caring child and youth as the infant grows up. But make sure that you pour your affection on the child only as long as he welcomes it. Never impose your love on the baby when he doesn’t want to be touched, kissed or loved. Do not forget, your baby is also a human being and has all the rights to set his own physical boundaries. It is also important for your child to help him learn to protect himself against those who intend to harm him. Make sure to let your child learn that he is by all means allowed to reject touch when he doesn’t want it.
Related Questions
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.