Suggests that continual disruption of attachment
between infant and primary caregiver could result in
long term cognitive, social and emotional difficulties for
the infant, these effects were believed to be permanent.
Critical Period
Argued that the first 2.5 years of life
were crucial. If child was separated
from their primary attachment figure
for an extended period of time, the
care damage was irreversible.
Affectionless Psychopathy -
inability to show affection or
concern for others, lack of
shame or sense of
responsibility.
44 Thieves study
Aim: to investigate the long term
effects of maternal deprivation
Procedure: Made 2 groups, 1 of children accused of theft and a
second control group. Children and parents were interviewed
and tested by Bowlby focusing on their early life experiences.
Findings: 14/44 from theft group were
affectionless psychopaths, 12/14 had
experienced prolonged separation of more
than 6 months from their mothers. From
control 2 had experienced prolonged
separations but none were found with
affectionless psychopathy.
Evaluation
Strengths:
Support from animal research. Harlow's research with
monkeys showed that the monkeys without maternal care
had turned to violence in their later years and had problems
with social interactions.
Real life application. Orphanages now have to take
account of emotional needs. In maternity units mothers
are allowed to spend more time with their babies.
Weaknesses:
Doesnt distinguish between deprivation and
privation. Rutter stresses that quality of
attachment bond is the most important factor.
Flawed evidence and bias.
Bowlby himself carried out
the interviews so was open to
bias.