Attachment intro

• 5 behaviours that indicate attachment:

  • Proximity seeking
  • General orientation toward a specific individual
  • Distress at separation
  • Joy on reunion
  • Sensitivity of the caregiver to the needs of the infant
• Attachment definition

  An enduring emotional bond between two people characterised by anxiety upon separation and joy at reunion.
• Define reciprocity


  The interactions between carer and infant are characterised by 'turn-taking'. Often behaviours in one are mimicked by the other. e.g. if infant smiles, caregiver smiles.
• What did Mary Ainsworth add to the definition of attachment?

  For the infant, the attachment bond provides a sense of comfort and security and provides a safe base from which it can explore their world.
• What is interactional synchrony? 


  Maintained engagement and coordination between an infant and caregiver.