AN OVERVIEW OF ATTACHMENT THEORY: BOWLBY AND BEYOND

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to the attachment theory and its clinical applications. It presents an overview of attachment theory as described by John Bowlby and a description of the work carried out by Mary Ainsworth, Mary Main and Pat Crittenden in developing classifications of attachment and expanding upon Bowlby's attachment theory. Bowlby's development of attachment theory was based upon evolutionary theory and ethology. He proposed that attachment behaviours are organized within a behavioural system which promotes proximity between children and their mothers in response to real or perceived threats, in order to help them to survive. The chapter provides a discussion on contemporary neuroscience related to attachment theory and addresses therapeutic work regarding attachment theory in non-ID populations. It also uses a case example to explain and illustrate the application of attachment theory within intellectual disabilities (ID) populations.