Attachment Theory and Why It Matters

Attachment theory is a psychological model that explains why we form strong emotional bonds with certain people in our lives. It suggests that our early experiences with caregivers shape our ability to form secure attachments with others later in life. This theory has been used to explain why we become attached to our romantic partners, family members, and friends.

At the core of attachment theory is the idea that we all have a need for connection and security. This need is rooted in our early experiences with our primary caregivers, such as our parents or guardians. If our caregivers are responsive and supportive, we develop a secure attachment style. This means that we feel safe and secure in our relationships, and we are able to trust and rely on our partners.

On the other hand, if our caregivers are not responsive or supportive, we may develop an insecure attachment style. This means that we may struggle to trust and rely on our partners, and we may be more likely to become anxious or clingy in our relationships.

Attachment theory also suggests that we are drawn to people who remind us of our primary caregivers. This is because we are seeking out the same kind of connection and security that we experienced in our early relationships.

Ultimately, attachment theory helps us to understand why we become attached to certain people in our lives. It suggests that our early experiences with our caregivers shape our ability to form secure attachments with others later in life. It also explains why we are drawn to people who remind us of our primary caregivers, as we are seeking out the same kind of connection and security that we experienced in our early relationships.

Find out how my integrative approach can help you. I use a mix of psychotherapy, counselling and hypnotherapy at my practice. Schedule a call today.