One primary attachment figure (usually the mother) is qualitatively different and most important. Learn it step by step →
Attachment is a core part of A-Level Psychology. Revise the key concepts and common mistakes below, then lock them in with the free games.
Key concepts
Bowlby's monotropyInfants form one primary special attachment that acts as a prototype for all later relationships.
Critical periodBowlby's claim that attachment must form within roughly 2.5 years or it becomes very difficult to form later.
Ainsworth Strange SituationStandardised observation classifying attachment as secure (B), insecure-avoidant (A) or insecure-resistant (C).
Van IJzendoorn (1988)Meta-analysis of 32 studies showed secure attachment is the dominant type globally but intra-cultural variation exceeded inter-cultural.
Maternal deprivation hypothesisBowlby's claim that prolonged separation causes affectionless psychopathy; supported by 44 Thieves study.
Romanian orphan studiesRutter (2011) found late-adopted Romanian orphans showed disinhibited attachment and lower IQ than those adopted before 6 months.
What your exam board covers
Where Attachment sits in each exam board's specification. Tap a board to see what it lists.
AQAAttachmentSpec 7182
Caregiver–infant interactions
Explanations of attachment
Types of attachment
Effects of maternal deprivation and institutionalisation
Questions where students often pick the tempting wrong answer — make sure you know the right one:
What did Bowlby mean by monotropy?✗ A child can only ever form one attachment.✓ One primary attachment figure (usually the mother) is qualitatively different and most important.
How does a securely attached infant respond to reunion with the caregiver?✗ Shows no distress and ignores the caregiver.✓ Seeks comfort and is easily soothed, then returns to play.
Practise Attachment — free games
Test yourself with these quick revision games for this topic:
