Psychology MCAT Practice Exam 2025 – Complete All-in-One Guide to Ensure Your Success!

Attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby, emphasizes the crucial bond between children and their caregivers. This theory posits that the emotional and physical availability of caregivers leads to the child developing a secure attachment style, which deeply influences their emotional development and future relationships. Bowlby suggested that the early interactions a child has, particularly with primary caregivers, shape their expectations and behaviors in later relationships, fostering either a sense of security or anxiety.

The focus is distinctly on the foundational relationship a child has with their primary attachment figure—often a parent or primary caregiver. This relationship is fundamental in forming the child’s ability to explore the world and seek comfort, underscoring the critical role that caregivers play in a child’s developmental trajectory. The emphasis on this dyad highlights how significant these early experiences are in shaping personality and attachment styles throughout life.