influence of early attachment

• Internal working model

  • mental representation’ (schema) of their early attachment relationship with their primary caregiver
  • model for what relationships are like and future relationships will mirror them
  • loving primary caregiver who responds to their needs, they are likely to have a secure attachment and view relationships as positive (positive internal working model) and have more successful later relationships.
  • insecure attachment and more problems in forming relationships, e.g. too controlling
• childhood

  • secure - better quality relationships
  • insecure avoidant - victims of bullying
  • insecure resistant - bullies
• adult

  • secure - positive and longer lasting romantic relationships with partners they felt they could trust
  • insecure avoidant - more feelings of jealousy and feared intimacy
  • insecure resistance - people fear being abandoned and can put too much pressure on their partner