Ace Aeterna Presents:

An Introductory Survey of the Psychology of Interpersonal Relationships

Follow an ongoing instruction series on the topic of interpersonal relationship psychology.

Attachment Theory

Of the most pervasive concepts in all of psychology, and ubiquitous in the many areas of experimental and clinical research, attachment theory is likely the be of paramount importance, if for no other reason that it is historically one of the oldest phenomena in psychology to be investigated. Attachment theory describes the relationship between a child and a caregiver, positing that this relationship pervades into adult life. For the scope of today’s informational exercise, we shall describe the different attachment styles. As a warning, these attachment patterns are subject to effects of context and individual differences in temperament of the described children

Secure attachment - When a caregiver is present, this toddler explores freely. However, there is distress when the caregiver leaves. Levels of distress and exploration are among the examples that can be affected by context, temperament, and the typical immediacy of a caregiver responding to the attention-seeking behaviors (crying) of the child.

Anxious-ambivalent attachment - This toddler may explore less than their secure counterparts, are anxious around adults, and respond to consolation slowly, even when caregivers are present.

Anxious-avoidant and dismissive avoidant- These toddlers ignore the caregiver, showing little emotion when caregivers depart or return. Tendency to ignore the caregiver, or even turn away from the caregiver are demonstrative of this form of attachment.

Disorganize/disoriented attachment - This form of attachment is representative as tense movements, putting the hands behind the neck, tensely cocking the head, and so on. These behaviors also take place leading up to and during episodes of crying. This attachment style is usually associated with abuse.

In conclusion, there are many different configurations of relationships that may develop from childhood and will have an impact on adulthood.

Although the generalization from attachment theory information to the technological world can be difficult, consider the implications it holds for behavior in maturity. Although few of your interactions on the internet or blockchain will be hasty and temperamental, think of these things , not as you behave, but as you become a member of a social group or even a steemit community.