Bowlbys monotropic theory

• what does bowlby believe about attachment


  • it is innate
  • has an evolutionary explanation
• What is monotropy


  • when babies form a primary attachment figure to one person
• what are social releases

  • Bowlby suggest that babies are born with innate behaviours
  • like smiling
  • to get attention from adults
• what is the critical period

  • sensitive period - around six months where the infant attachment system is active
  • 2 years
• according to Bowlby what happens if a child doesn't form an attachment within the sensitive period


  the child will find it much harder to form one later on
• what is the internal working model

  a mental representation of the Childs relationship with their primary attachment figure
• socially sensitive view on monotropy


  • due to Bowlby stating that if the baby did not spend a lot of time with the mother
  • then their attachment would be ruined
  • this places a large burden on the mother to stay at home.
  • if the mother is working full time, they may feel guilty if they hear this theory
• oversimplified


  • Bowlby suggests that the attachment to the primary caregiver is special in some way
  • however he is unable to explain this fully.
  • it may be that the attachment to the primacy care giver is stronger not more special.