Stages of itachment

• Asocial (0-6 weeks)

  • Infants respond to people and objects the same
  • But they do show a preference for faces and eyes
• Indiscriminate Attachment (6 weeks 6 months)

  • Preference begins to now be shown for familiar face
  • Primary and secondary caregivers are preferred
• Specific Attachment (7 months +)

  • The attachment between the Primary Caregiver has now formed
  • All the signs of attachment are observed: Stranger anxiety, proximity seeking behaviour and clinginess
• Multiple Attachment (10/11 months)

  • Within a month after attachment begins in stage 3, then multiple attachments begin
  • This, from Schaffer and Emerson’s research, is usually with the father
  • It can also be with grandparents, siblings and anyone else who has regular contact with the

  infant