attachment theory

American  

noun

Psychology.

1. a set of concepts that explain the emergence of an emotional bond between an infant and primary caregiver and the way in which this bond affects the child’s behavioral and emotional development into adulthood.

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Etymology

Origin of attachment theory

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

It’s something that Jeff Guenther, a licensed professional counselor who posts relationship advice on social media under the handle Therapy Jeff, often sees in the comments on his videos about attachment theory.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 5, 2023

Although Bowlby and Ainsworth’s attachment theory was considered radical in its time, scientists have since expanded it to explain not only human parenting but also friendships, romantic relationships and the pang of their loss.

From Scientific American • Feb. 13, 2023

Indeed, attachment theory is taught in psychology programs and taken seriously by psychologists and psychoanalysts alike.

From Salon • Feb. 13, 2022

I went to a weekly meditation group led by a Buddhist teacher with double-digit sobriety who introduced me to attachment theory and, at the risk of sounding dramatic, changed my life forever.

From New York Times • Sep. 10, 2021

I’m disappointed, though, that the daycare hasn’t been able to head some of these conflicts off at the pass, and I don’t understand what their attachment theory model has to do with anything.

From Slate • Apr. 19, 2021