Attachment Security: Developmental Effects and Effective Intervention

Course overview

Current research reveals that in addition to the traditional mother-child dyad, infants also attach to other consistent caregivers (i.e., fathers, both parents, foster parents, nannies). The effects of positive development due to secure attachment are widely known and accepted. It is only within the past decade that researchers have turned their attention to understanding insecure attachment and its prevalence across cultures. This intermediate-level course begins by reviewing early research and the identification of attachment styles. The basic components of attachment theory are explained while also noting potential racial and cultural biases in the theory and research literature. The effects of insecure attachments and parenting style across developmental domains are discussed. Case studies provide opportunities for clinical application of attachment theory, including how a parent's own attachment security can influence that of their children and family system. This course provides information on the effects of attachment types on relationships, communication, the development of mental health related concerns, and personality disorders.