Psychodynamic debate

• Traditionally society and psychology suggests PCG should be mother. Some research has suggested mother/child bond = imperative to healthy development, other research suggests others can take this role.
• Mother should be PCG - NHS recommends breastfeeding for the first 6 months of a babies life. Both physical and psychological benefits of breastfeeding. Helps immunity system, has been reducing illnesses such as asthma and obesity. Psychologically breastfeeding to increase emotional bond between mother and baby due to release of oxytocin. Breastfeeding is something only a mother can do, providing physical and psychological benefits to the baby. Women who breastfeed may feel guilt that they could be contributing to poor physical and emotional development of their child.
• Mother does not have to be the PCG - Harlow baby monkeys who were removed from mothers at birth, kept with wire mother and a cloth mother that provided comfort.