stages of attachment

• Schaffer identified the stages of attachment
• stage 1 is 0-6 weeks and is known as the asocial stage (beginning of attachment)
• Asocial stage is where infant show similar response towards objects and people. show a preference towards eyes/faces
• stage 2 is 6 weeks to 6 months - indiscriminate attachment
• indiscriminate attachment :

  • infant preference over human company over non-human company
  • ability to distinguish between different people
  • they are comforted indiscriminately (by anyone)
• stage 3 is 7 months to 12 months - discriminate/specific attachment
• discriminate/specific attachment:

  • infant shows preference towards one caregiver
  • displaying separation and stranger anxiety
  • looks to particular person for security, comfort and protection
• stage 4 is 1 year + - multiple attachments
• multiple attachments:

  • attachment behaviours are displayed towards several different people
  • siblings, grandparents etc.
• Schaffer and Emerson study - Evidence for attachment stages
• method - 60 babies observed homes in Glasgow every 4 weeks from birth to 18 months. Interviews conducted with families
• results - Schaffers stages of attachment found to occur. 8 months 50 babies more one attachment. 20 no attachment with mother but stronger someone else
• conclusion - infants for attachment in stages and can attach to many people. Quality of care is important as may not attach primary caregiver iff someone responds better to their signals