Children who begin their lives with the essential foundation of secure attachment fare better in all aspects of functioning as they develop. Numerous longitudinal studies have demonstrated that securely attached infants and toddlers do better over time in the following areas:
- Self-esteem;
- Independence and autonomy;
- Resilience in the face of adversity;
- Ability to manage impulses and feelings;
- Long-term friendships;
- Relationships with parents, caregivers, and other authority figures;
- Prosocial coping skills;
- Trust, intimacy, and affection;
- Positive and hopeful belief systems about self, family, and society;
- Empathy, compassion, and conscience;
- Behavioral performance and academic success in school; and
- Promote secure attachment with adult partners and with their own children when they become adults (Sroufe et al. 2005, as referenced inAttachment,Trauma & Healing, T.Levy & M.Orlans, 2014, J.Kingsley Pub.).
Dr . Terry Levy and Mr. Michael Orlans co-wrote this article. They are the co-authors of two books and co-lead seminars on attachment and trauma. They welcome hearing from you.
