bowlby's monotropy theory

• what did bowlby's monotropy theory propose

  • humans have evolved the need for attachment as it aids survival
  • views attachment as an innate an adaptive behaviour
• what are 3 ways monotropy theory says attachment hooks survival?

  • keeps infant safe- as it maintains proximity with caregiver
  • enables healthy emotional bonds to be learned - through development of internal working model (template fro future relationships)
  • infant can use adult as a secure base for exploration which is important for development
• what did monotropy theory say about lies or instinctive behaviours

  • they act as social releasers e.g. crying or smiling
  • these social releases elicit parenting behaviours resulting in a well looked after baby and therefore promoting survival
  • the social releases and parenting responses interact to build attachments
• is bowlby's monotropy theory nature or nurture?

  • nature
  • believes our internal working model is passed down through generations
  • argues we have a critical period for attachment (0-3 years old)
• what is monotropy?

  • forming one main attachment with our primary giver which is usually our mother
• what does bowlby argue about not forming attachments?

  • that it will harm the child's development
• evaluation of Bowlby - strengths

  • need for monotropy is universal - AINSWORTH (1967) observed the Ganda tribe of Uganda and found infants form one primary attachment even when having multiple caregivers
• evaluation of Bowlby - limitations

  • importance of monotropy is overemphasises - THOMAS (1998) suggested having a network of attachments may be better to support their emotional and social needs