Internal working model

• What is the term for the mental representation of relationships formed by a child?

  Internal working model
• What does Bowlby's internal working model represent?

  It models what relationships are like
• How does a loving first relationship affect future relationships?

  It leads to expectations of love and reliability
• What happens if a child experiences poor treatment in their first relationship?

  They expect poor treatment in future relationships
• How does the internal working model influence parenting behavior?

  It is based on their own parenting experiences
• Why do children from functional families tend to have similar families themselves?

  Due to their internal working model of relationships
• What are the implications of Bowlby's internal working model for child development?

  • Shapes expectations of future relationships
  • Influences parenting styles
  • Affects emotional and social development