Bowlby (1955) concluded that early harmful experiences, especially prolonged separation from the mother, can lead to emotional and behavioural problems such as delinquency. He believed these separations disrupt the development of the superego, reducing a child’s sense of right and wrong. While acknowledging other social factors, Bowlby emphasised the psychoanalytic view that early mother-child relationships are crucial. He suggested prevention is more effective than treatment, as early separation can cause long-term damage.
