‘A child’s primary relationships are the most important’

• Point

  The psychodynamic approach suggests that a child’s primary relationships are crucial in influencing later development, particularly in forming healthy adult relationships
• Evidence

  Freud’s theory of psychosexual development argues that early childhood experiences shape personality and relationship patterns. For example, fixation at the oral stage due to overindulgence can lead to dependency issues in adulthood, making a person overly needy in relationships. Similarly, unresolved conflicts during the phallic stage, such as failure to resolve the Oedipus complex in boys, may result in difficulties forming healthy romantic relationships later in life.
• Explain

  Additionally, Bowlby‘s maternal deprivation hypothesis, influenced by psychodynamic ideas, suggests that early relationships with caregivers acts as a blueprint for future relationships. If a child experiences prolonged separation from their primary caregiver, they may develop an “affectionless character,” struggling to form meaningful emotional connections in adulthood. This supports the idea that early relationships are fundamental in shaping later social and romantic bonds.
• Link

  Therefore, the psychodynamic approach explains relationship formation by emphasising the lasting impact of early experiences. Disruptions in childhood relationships can lead to difficulties in forming secure and healthy relationships in later life.