AO1 - Internal Working Model

• A child’s relationship with its primary caregiver provides an internal working model, which influences later relationships.
• An internal working model is a cognitive framework from which all relationships are based.
• Bowlby proposed that a child forms a mental representation of their relationship with their primary caregiver, called the internal working model.
• If a child builds a loving, supportive relationship with their caregivers, they will use this as blueprint for future relationships.
• The internal working model provides a framework for the child to use later in life when they become a parent.
• There are three main features of the internal working model.
• One feature of the internal working model is when a model of others is seen as being trustworthy, so parents must lead by example.
• One feature of the internal working model is when a model of the self is seen as valuable, so everyone should value themselves in relationships.
• One feature of the internal working model is when a model of the self is seen as effective when interacting with others. This means we develop the skills to form successful, healthy relationships with others.