Attachment refers to the emotional bond that develops between a child and their caregiver—usually a parent.
It develops via interaction between the parent and child, both emotionally and behaviorally. Hence, when a child—especially an infant—expresses a need for comfort, attention, or security, the response of a parent will impact that child’s sense of attachment.
So, just how important is attachment when it comes to a child’s development?
The relationship a child develops with their primary caregiver is an extremely influential bond, reaching far into their future.
Consider some details.
How Does Attachment Work?
Attachment develops over time as the relationship between a child and caregiver grows and the child understands how that person will respond to their needs.
There are four stages of attachment:
- An infant responds to anyone who gives them attention/contact
- A baby develops reactions (coos, babbles, etc.) to specific people in their lives
- An infant shows behaviors of attachment with the primary caregiver
- The primary caregiver and the baby end up influencing one another’s behavior
An important part of the “third” stage of attachment is also the idea that your child might feel anxious when you’re gone. Many parents experience this when they have to drop off their baby at a daycare or with a family member, etc.
How a child reacts when you return to them is an extremely important thing to observe when it comes to their attachment behavior. If they run to you happily, it signifies they feel safe, secure, and comfortable around you. If they seem indifferent or don’t want to return to your care, it could be a sign that they don’t feel as bonded.
How Important Is Attachment for Child Development?
Attachment is crucial for child development. Children with strong attachments are able to better control their emotions, even in high-stress situations. They’re also typically more confident, and they are more socially aware of what’s going on around them and how to manage their feelings.
Most importantly, though, children who have a positive and secure attachment with a caregiver or parent learn better social skills. A caregiver who is responsive, consistent, shows love and attention to a child is helping their child develop a sense of worth.
As a child continues to grow, they recognize that, and that sense of worth makes it easier for them to be empathetic. It also helps them to form strong relationships with peers as they get older.
What If a Child Develops an Attachment Disorder?
If a child is not in an environment where they receive regular attention and care, they could develop an attachment disorder.
This can cause symptoms like:
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Sadness
- No social interaction
- Not seeking comfort from others
As you might expect, when it comes to proper child development, these aren’t the kind of characteristics that lead to learning healthy social skills and feeling confident and loved.
Children with an attachment disorder may develop attachment issues in relationships as an adult as well. They may also struggle with other emotional issues, such as anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, or even depression.
Many times, therapy or counseling benefits adults who didn’t bond with a caregiver at a young age. It allows them to work through the underlying cause of some of their problems so they can start to feel a stronger sense of self-worth. And that, in turn, will help them with other relationships.
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Clearly, a positive attachment relationship helps children developmentally. But it also lays the framework for them to have healthy relationships in the future. That’s why secure attachment is such a crucial part of your child’s growth and well-being, especially during their early stages of life. Forming that bond now and assuring your child that they are loved, cared for, and protected, will have lasting positive effects.
If you’re interested in learning more about attachment, please feel free to contact us.