Schaffer and Emerson 1964

• What is the aim of Schaffer and Emerson's study?

  To determine how and when attachments form in infants
• What method did Schaffer and Emerson use to gather data?

  Observations and interviews with mothers
• At what age were the infants followed up again?


  1. Studied 60 infants, visiting their homes every4 weeks for a year.
  2. Then again when they were 18 months
  3. They recorded and analysed children's reactions during 7 everyday situations where the adult would be separated from their infants.
• What two key concepts were measured to assess attachment?

  Separation anxiety and stranger anxiety
• What were the results?

  • At 25-32 weeks old specific attachment formed in 50% of the infants, this was demonstrated through separation anxiety
  • In 65% of infants, the first attachment was to the mothers whereas only 3% of fathers
  • The babies began to form multiple attachments soon after this.
• To whom did 65% of infants form their first attachment?

  To their mother
• What does the study conclude about the formation of attachments?

  Attachments form in stages
• What was the location of the study conducted by Schaffer and Emerson?

  Glasgow
• What was the percentage of infants who first attached to their fathers?

  3%
• What does the term "separation anxiety" refer to in the context of the study?

  Distress when separated from the mother
• What does "stranger anxiety" indicate in infants?

  Wariness of the presence of strangers
• What is a longitudinal study?

  A study over a long period of time at regular intervals.
• Why is a longitudinal study a strength?

  It's more likely to be accurate.
• Why is a longitudinal study a problem?

  People may drop out and get bored.
• What is a potential problem mentioned regarding the study's methodology?

  People may not accurately report behaviors
• What implications does the study have for understanding attachment in infants?

  Highlights the importance of early relationships