Active learning ideas
This topic explores the devastating effects of the lack of a primary attachment bond. Students examine Bowlby's theory of maternal deprivation, which suggests that early separation can lead to permanent emotional and intellectual damage, including 'affectionless psychopathy'. This theory is then contrasted with more modern research into institutionalisation, specifically the Romanian orphan studies.
Activity 01
Students are given data summaries from Rutter's ERA study. They must track the progress of children adopted at different ages (before 6 months vs. after 2 years) to identify the impact of the 'sensitive period' on recovery.
What are the long-term consequences of maternal deprivation?
Activity 02
Students discuss how a child's first relationship acts as a 'template' for future ones. They brainstorm how a secure versus an insecure early bond might affect a person's friendships and romantic life in adulthood.
How did the Romanian orphan studies change our understanding of institutionalisation?
Activity 03
Display the details of Bowlby's famous study. Students move around to evaluate the methodology, identifying potential researcher bias and the difference between 'deprivation' and 'privation'.
How does early attachment influence later relationships?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Deprivation and privation are the same thing.
Explain that deprivation is the loss of an existing bond, while privation is the failure to ever form a bond. Using the Romanian orphan studies as an example of privation helps students see why the effects are often more severe.
The effects of institutionalisation are always permanent.
Clarify that research shows significant recovery is possible, especially if adoption occurs before six months. Highlighting the 'sensitive period' rather than a 'critical period' helps students understand the potential for human resilience.
Methods used in this brief
Caregiver-Infant Interactions
An introduction to the development of attachment, focusing on reciprocity and interactional synchrony. Students will review Schaffer and Emerson's stages of attachment.
8 methodologies
Animal Studies of Attachment
Reviewing the foundational animal research by Lorenz and Harlow. Students will debate the ethical implications and the generalisability of these findings to human attachment.
8 methodologies
Types of Attachment
Exploring Ainsworth's Strange Situation and the resulting classifications of secure, insecure-avoidant, and insecure-resistant attachment. Students will also look at cultural variations in attachment types.
8 methodologies