In the first few weeks of life. Baby’s behaviour towards humans and inanimate objects are similar. Baby forming bonds with certain people which forms the basis of later attachment
What is indiscriminate attachment?
2-7 months. Preference of humans over inanimate objects. Do not usually show separation or stranger anxiety in presence of unfamiliar people.
What is specific attachment?
7 months. Attachment to one specific person- Primary attachment figure. Stranger and separation anxiety present.
What is multiple attachments?
shortly after baby starts to show attachment to one person they extend it to multiple people- Secondary attachments.
Strengths and weaknesses of stages of attachments:
+ Good external validity- parents were the ones who observed, HOWEVER, this could lead to bias
-Poor evidence asocial stage- young babies have poor coordination and are fairly immobile
