Attachment Theory is a psychological theory that provides a descriptive and empirical framework for interpersonal relationships throughout the life span. The central theme of Attachment Theory is that the infant-caregiver relationship informs styles of attachment which impact behaviors later in life. This course will explore in depth the work of John Bowlby, the first attachment theorist; Mary Ainsworth and her ground-breaking “strange situation” study; Margaret Main; and John Fonagy. The implications for psychoanalysis, psychotherapy, and parental support will be addressed.
