What is Attachment Theory?

Attachment theory is a psychological theory that describes how our early relationships with caregivers shape our patterns of attachment in later relationships. It was developed by British psychiatrist and psychoanalyst John Bowlby in the 1950s and 1960s and has since been supported by a large body of research.

Bowlby believed that infants are born with a need to form close bonds with their caregivers. These bonds provide infants with a sense of security and safety, which allows them to explore the world around them. When caregivers are responsive and available to their infants, infants develop a secure attachment style.

Infants raised by caregivers who are inconsistent or unavailable, on the other hand, may develop insecure attachment styles. There are three main types of insecure attachment styles: anxious, avoidant, and disorganized.

Click here to read more about Attachment Theory, the 4 Different Styles of Attachment, and how to change your attachment style.

Take this quiz to determine your attachment style.