Discuss Bowlby's theory of attachment.

Bowlby's theory of attachment suggests that infants have an innate need to form a strong emotional bond with a primary caregiver.

According to Bowlby, attachment is an evolutionary adaptation that promotes survival and increases the likelihood of reproductive success. Infants are born with an innate set of behaviours, such as crying and clinging, that elicit caregiving behaviours from adults. The attachment relationship provides a secure base from which the infant can explore the world and seek comfort when distressed.

Bowlby proposed that there are four stages of attachment: pre-attachment, attachment-in-the-making, clear-cut attachment, and reciprocal relationships. In the pre-attachment phase, infants do not show a preference for any particular caregiver. During attachment-in-the-making, infants begin to develop a preference for a primary caregiver. In the clear-cut attachment phase, infants actively seek proximity to their caregiver and show distress when separated. Finally, in the reciprocal relationships phase, children develop the ability to understand and respond to their caregiver's needs and emotions.

Bowlby also identified different attachment styles based on the quality of the attachment relationship. Securely attached infants have a caregiver who is consistently responsive to their needs, while insecurely attached infants may have a caregiver who is inconsistent or unresponsive. Insecure attachment can lead to negative outcomes such as anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming relationships later in life.

Overall, Bowlby's theory of attachment emphasises the importance of early social relationships and their impact on later development.