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The Power of Connecting : Attachment Theory
In this article, for the purpose of communicating the idea, connecting and attachment will be used interchangeably. An attachment is usually developed throughout a series of events that connect and bond two people together.
Throughout the human cycle, connecting with others is a common experience, most especially within significant relationships. Relationships are the cornerstone of existence, the network of humanity is a string of people connecting to one another. We are all born with a deep need and desire to connect to one another, but our histories, traumas, and the way we are socialized can get in the way of forming deep and meaningful relationships.
However, our longing for connection doesn’t disappear, but actually intensifies as we age. The difficult part is navigating through our preconceived thoughts and ideas of the world and allowing that to merge seamlessly with others. This is where conflict often arises, and we can act out in irrational ways. Understanding our need for connection and how to sustain that connection draws on the psychological concept of Attachment. Through this series, we will explore the following:
- What is attachment?
- How does it develop and what is it used for?
- The types of attachment
- How to cultivate a healthier attachment
Attachment: What is it?
The concept of attachment, was pioneered by John Bowlby in the 1960s. He identified attachment as a lifelong psychological bond that forms between individuals, particularly between infants and their primary caregiver, usually the mother. This bond, crucial for human survival, begins in infancy and influences all subsequent relationships.
Therapy in the area of attachment, provides an opportunity to process and heal early childhood trauma and work through fears of abandonment and rejection. A healthier attachment style has shown to increase a positive self-esteem, stronger romantic relationships, a healthy ability to self-disclose to others, and a more profound sense of connection with others.
To learn more about your attachment style, click here to take our Attachment Style Quiz.
Follow us on social media as we delve more into the concept of attachment theory and look more closely at different attachment styles.
Kimona Premjith is a clinical Psychologist at The Wellness Evolution. One of her special areas of interest is in Women’s health and fertility challenges, also dealing with peri-natal health and post-partum depression. Visit our website www.thewellnessevolution.co.za/about-kimona-premjith for more information or to book an appointment.
