Attachment is the deep and enduring connection established between children and caregivers in the early stages of life. It profoundly influences every aspect of the human condition—mind, body, emotions, relationships, and morality. Attachment is not something that parents do to their children; it is something that children and parents create together, in an ongoing, reciprocal relationship. Attachment to a protective and loving caregiver who provides security and support is a basic human need. We have an instinct to attach: babies instinctively reach out for the safety of the “secure base” with caregivers; parents instinctively protect and nurture their young. Attachment is a biological, emotional, mental and social experience. Instinctual attachment behaviors in the baby are activated by cues or signals from the caregiver (eye contact, smiles, loving touch and need fulfillment).This process is defined as a “mutual regulatory system,” in which the baby and the caregiver influence one another over time.
The principle developmental task of the first year of life is to establish secure attachment and trust between infant and primary caregiver. In order for this bond of emotional communication to develop the caregiver must be psychologically and biologically attuned to the needs, emotions, and mental state of the child. Beyond the basic function of secure attachment—providing safety and protection for the vulnerable young through closeness to a caregiver—there are several other important functions of secure attachment for children:
• to learn basic trust and reciprocity, which serves as a template for all future emotional relationships.
• to explore the environment with feelings of safety and security (“secure base”), which leads to healthy cognitive and social development.
• to develop the ability to self-regulate, which results in impulse control.
• to create a foundation for an identity that includes a sense of competency, self-worth, and a balance between dependence and autonomy.
• to establish prosocial morality, including empathy, compassion, and a conscience.
• to generate positive core beliefs of self, caregivers, and life (“I am lovable and capable, caregivers are trustworthy and supportive, my life feels safe and contented”).
• to provide a defense against stress and trauma, and the ability to bounce-back from adversity (resilience).
