Attachment Theory:

Attachment theory, developed by British psychologist John Bowlby (1907–1990), explores the emotional bonds between infants and caregivers—emphasizing the importance of early relationships in shaping later development and relationships. Infants need to form close bonds with their caregivers to survive and develop healthy social and emotional skills. Our “attachment system” helps regulate negative emotions and protect us from harm. Different attachment styles are: secure, anxious (or ambivalent), avoidant-dismissive, disorganized. Also see Attachment Trauma and Abuse