Animal Studies - Harlow; Evaluation

• A strength of Harlow's research is it has theoretical value. Harlow's findings have had a profound effect on psychologists' understanding of human mother-infant interaction. Most importantly, he showed attachment develops as a result of contact comfort. This is a strength as it shows the importance of the quality of early relationships for later social development (holding down adult relationships, successfully rearing children)
• Another strength of Harlow's research is its practical value. Insight into attachment from Harlow's research has had important applications in a range of practical contexts. E.g, helping social workers understand risk factors in child neglect & abuse so intervene to prevent it. This is a strength as it shows Harlow's research has high ecological validity and real-life applications.
• A weakness of Harlow's research is it has ethical issues. Harlow faced severe criticism for the ethics of his research. The monkeys suffered greatly due to Harlow's procedures. Harlow himself was well aware of the suffering he caused- Harlow referred to wire mothers as 'iron maidens' after a medieval torture device. The counter argument is that Harlow's research was sufficiently important to justify the effects