The bond that is formed between an infant and its primary caregiver is called an attachment bond. This bond is important for the infant's development, helping fulfill the infant's need for safety, security and protection. It is important to note that this attachment can develop equally with either a father or mother or whoever is the primary caregiver. The goal of the attachment bond is to keep the infant in proximity to the caregiver and maintain access to safety and security that the caretaker provides.
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Attachment is the emotional bond that forms between an infant and their primary caregiver, typically the mother. This bond is essential for the infant's emotional and social development, providing a sense of security and trust that shapes future relationships. Factors like responsiveness, consistency, and sensitivity in caregiving play a crucial role in fostering a healthy attachment between the infant and caregiver.
Attachment is typically formed between an infant and primary caregiver around eight months of age, as identified by psychologist John Bowlby. This attachment serves as a foundation for future social and emotional development, influencing relationships throughout the individual's life.
Secure attachment refers to a healthy and trusting bond between a caregiver and a child. It is characterized by the child feeling safe, supported, and able to explore their environment knowing that their caregiver will provide comfort and protection when needed. This attachment style has been linked to positive outcomes in the child's emotional development and relationships later in life.
John Bowlby, a British psychologist, emphasized the importance of attachment beyond just physical needs in his theory of attachment. He believed that a secure attachment is crucial for healthy emotional and social development in infants, forming a strong bond with a caregiver that goes beyond basic nourishment.
Maternal rejection or maternal abandonment is when a mother shows disinterest or neglect towards her baby, failing to provide the emotional and physical care that is necessary for the infant's well-being and development. This can have serious consequences on the child's emotional and psychological health.
Infants have a relatively high level of emotional reactivity due to their limited ability to regulate emotions or express themselves verbally. Their emotional responses are often more intense and can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, such as hunger, discomfort, or overstimulation. It is important for caregivers to provide a nurturing and supportive environment to help infants learn to regulate their emotions over time.