Attachment Theory: the foundations of how we love

Attachment Theory, introduced by John Bowlby in the 1940s, then developed by Mary Ainsworth in the 1970s, describes the importance of the care we received as a baby - not just in and of itself, but as a template for future relationships with ourselves and other people. A very established and well-researched phenomenon, all parents would be wise to know a bit about it. Equally, understanding ourselves - our own sense of self, and how we relate to others - is better achieved if we begin to identify the kind of attachment we had to our own caregivers, and the long term impact it had on our lives.

Below this short video, explaining some of the details, are two book recommendations for anyone interested to learn more. The first is ‘Why Love Matters’ by Sue Gerhardt. A neuroscientist, she explains the physiological impact of poor attachment, and the ways to overcome the damage that can be caused. The second is ‘The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read: (And Your Children Will Be Glad That You Did)’ by Philippa Perry - esteemed Psychoanalyst (and wife of Grayson!). They have both interested and inspired me (as teacher, as coach, as mother, as human!) and you might enjoy having a look at them too.

In the meantime, I wonder what you’ll make of this video about Attachment Theory? As we bring in the love this month - how easy do we find that, and what are the foundations on which our loving relationships are based today?