Secure attachment is a relationship between a caregiver and child that fosters feelings of safety and security. However, understanding what secure attachment is not, can be just as important as understanding what it is.
1. Contrary to popular belief, Secure attachment is not about constant physical contact between caregiver and child.
A study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that secure attachment can be established through consistent, responsive care, even without frequent physical touch.
2. Secure attachment is not a synonym for overprotective parenting.
A study published in the Journal of Research on Adolescence found that adolescents with overprotective parents were more likely to experience higher levels of anxiety and depression, indicating that such parenting may hinder the development of independence and self-efficacy.
3. Secure attachment is not limited to a specific type of caregiver.
A study published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that children can develop secure attachments with both parents, grandparents, and other caregivers.
Understanding what secure attachment isn’t, can help caregivers focus on providing the right kind of care and support for their children’s development. By providing responsive, consistent care and allowing children to develop autonomy and independence, caregivers can help foster secure attachment and promote healthy development.
Written by Brittany Wadforth – EMDR Therapist/Registered Counsellor
Accredited in EMDR by the EMDR Association of Australia Dip Cn, B.Soc.Sc. (Psych), GDip Psych Sc,
B. Psy.Sc (Hons) EMDRAA, ACA, AAPi, APS
References
· Berlin, L. J., Cassidy, J., & Belsky, J. (2015). Discrepancies in maternal and paternal perspectives on infant attachment: Relationships to infant-parent relationship and maternal sensitivity. Journal of Family Psychology, 29(6), 834-843.
· Henderson, A. J., Marshall, S. K., Sabin, K., & Kuhns, A. B. (2016). Parenting style, resilience, and mental health of transgender and gender-nonconforming youth. Journal of Research on Adolescence,26(4), 800-808.
· Lamb, M. E., & Lewis, C. (2019). Father-child relationships: Contemporary issues and theoretical perspectives. Psychology Press.
· Ravitz, P. (2019). The importance of attachment. Harvard Health Publishing.
· Waters, E., & Deane, K. E. (2018). Defining and assessing individual differences in attachment relationships: Q-methodology and person-centered analysis. In Attachment theory and research in clinical work with adults (pp. 41-64). Guilford Publications.
· What is the Circle of Security. (n.d.). Circle of Security International. https://www.circleofsecurityinternational.com/circle-of-security-model/what-is-the-circle-of-security/