Contributions of attachment theory and research: A framework for future research, translation, and policy

Abstract

Attachment theory has been generating creative and impactful research for almost half a century. In this article we focus on the documented antecedents and consequences of individual differences in infant attachment patterns, suggesting topics for further theoretical clarification, research, clinical interventions, and policy applications. We pay particular attention to the concept of cognitive “working models” and to neural and physiological mechanisms through which early attachment experiences contribute to later functioning. We consider adult caregiving behavior that predicts infant attachment patterns, and the still-mysterious “transmission gap” between parental AAI classifications and infant Strange Situation classifications. We also review connections between attachment and (a) child psychopathology, (b) neurobiology, (c) health and immune function, (d) empathy, compassion, and altruism, (e) school readiness, and (f) culture. We conclude with clinical-translational and public policy applications of attachment research that could reduce the occurrence and maintenance of insecure attachment during infancy and beyond. Our goal is to inspire researchers to continue advancing the field by finding new ways to tackle long-standing questions and by generating and testing novel hypotheses.

Drivers of human development: How relationships and context shape learning and development1

“…Early and ongoing developmental relationships at home and at school promote balance between self-regulatory systems and contribute to the child's capacity to regulate emotions, behavior, and cognition; to develop a sense of agency; to feel connected to other people; and to establish an autobiographical narrative (Bronfenbrenner, 1979;Murray, Rosanbalm, Christopoulos, & Hamoudi, 2015). These relationships build upon early attachment relationships which establish a secure base for exploration and a safe haven, which continue to be important for learning and development (Ainsworth & Bowlby, 1991;Bowlby, 1988;Cassidy, Jones, & Shaver, 2013). Perceived support is more strongly related to psychological well-being than other dimensions of support (Thompson & Goodvin, 2016), and is affected by how developmental relationships are experienced, processed, and rememberedphenomenological factors that can be shaped by social-cognitive factors such as parent-child discourse and culture (Cassidy & Shaver, 2008;Thompson 2015).…”

Attachment in the Psychiatric Curriculum

“…Negative health behaviors and conditions are associated with attachment insecurity. These include: chronic pain, hypertension, stroke, and heart attack, as well as poor diet and tobacco use (Cassidy, Jones, & Shaver, 2013). Cassidy goes on to call for additional research into the mechanism of this association.…”

“…Cassidy goes on to call for additional research into the mechanism of this association. Early studies have pointed to the role of pro-inflammatory and neuro-endocrine dysregulation leading to chronic inflammation and concomitant age-related diseases (Cassidy, Jones, & Shaver, 2013).…”

Attachment Strategies and Neuroendocrine Biomarkers in Obese Children

“…[1][2][3][4] The quality of the relationship influences both behavioral and metabolic regulation systems as they are activated in stressful contexts.…”