Systemic attachment theory and therapeutic practice: a proposal

Abstract

The fundamentals of attachment theory and family systems theory are outlined in this paper. Theoretical strengths and weaknesses of both approaches are discussed. First, the similarities of both approaches are analysed (focus on family relationships; focus on normal as well as disturbed development; status as metatheoretical perspectives). Then, the differences are outlined (empirical consolidation versus speculative theory development; integration versus abandonment of the concept of 'personality'; normativity versus non-normativity; deficit orientation versus resource orientation; dyadic versus triadic view; focus on past and present time versus focus on present and future). PROBLEMAttachment theory and family systems theory both focus on interpersonal and, more specifically, on family relationships. Both are applicable to developmental as well as clinical psychology, and both were developed at about the same time.

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Formation, Disruption and Intergenerational Transmission of Attachment

“…A critique of attachment theory would focus on: (i) neglect of the broader family and social context of the caregiverÁchild relationship; (ii) the deficit focus of insecure attachments that discounts a child's willingness and ability to trust in internal rather than external forces; (iii) emphasis on the importance of a single relationship (socialisation of women, in particular, may cause guilt, which may obviate itself in an 174 S. Connor enmeshed relationship characterised by overprotectiveness and regressive spoiling); and (iv) attachment as an isolated factor in adult caregiving relationships (Von Sydow, 2002).…”

“…Although attachment has become a generic term applied to all relationships, Bowlby originally referred to an 'attachment' system as the child's attachment to parent figures and a 'caregiving' system as the parents' attachment to their children (Von Sydow, 2002). Von Sydow (2002, p. 81) summarised the core concepts of attachment theory according to five precepts:…”

Luche-Mundo: Una metodología para el abordaje responsable y dialógico del TDAH

“…Por su parte, sin desconocer la excepcional relevancia que puedan tener los vínculos afectivos en el sistema familiar, especialmente con los padres, se amplía el análisis a otros vínculos afectivos que se desarrollan a lo largo de la vida (Ainsworth, 1989). Además, la teoría sistémica enfatiza los recursos existentes en el contexto familiar y comunitario (Sydow, 2002). Mientras la primera realiza aportes significativos sobre las consecuencias de ciertas circunstancias ocurridas en el pasado, la teoría sistémica ofrece una perspectiva más orientada al presente y el futuro, enfatizando los recursos disponibles para un mejor desarrollo.…”

Families as Contexts for Attachment: Reflections on Theory, Research, and the Role of Family Rituals

“…This shift allowed attachment to be considered in the study of adult intimate relationships and, consequently, in couple and family relationships. The complementary natures of attachment theory and family systems theory combined with the emergence of the study of adult attachment might partially explain the dialogue between these two theoretical frameworks that began in the 1990s (Sydow, 2002). This dialogue captured the interest of the different but interdependent audiences for theory, research, and clinical practice.…”