Definition: Attachment is the ability to form healthy emotional bonds with another person.
When it is formed: Attachment is an important part of childhood development, which is formed in infancy.
How is it formed?: Attachment is formed as a child interacts with loving, responsive, attentive caregivers.
Why is it important?:
- It is the cornerstone of all other strengths like learning to cope and personality development.
- The child’s primary relationship sets the template for future relationships.
- Good attachment touches every aspect of the child’s life.
- Attachment greatly effects a child’s ability to learn.
What do attachment struggles look like?:
- Difficulty making and keeping friends.
- Difficulty trusting others.
- Difficulty being empathetic.
- Isolating self.
- Rejection of others.
- Influenced easily by aggressive behaviors.
How do I help attachment struggles?:
- Model good human contact: smile, eye contact, listen and use positive, affirming touch.
- Be relaxed, be light, and be aware of your body language.
- Avoid sarcasm.
- Encourage and facilitate interaction.
- Create and foster one relationship at a time! Then build on that success.