Vedhæftning

Vedhæftning refers to the process by which an individual forms a strong emotional bond with another person, typically a caregiver, during early childhood. This bond is crucial for healthy emotional and social development. The theory of attachment was pioneered by psychiatrist John Bowlby and further developed by Mary Ainsworth. They proposed that infants have an innate need to seek proximity to their primary caregiver for survival and security.

Different patterns of attachment have been identified through research, notably Ainsworth's "Strange Situation" procedure. These patterns include secure attachment, where the child feels safe and confident exploring their environment with the caregiver present, and insecure attachment styles. Insecure attachment can be further categorized into anxious-avoidant, where the child shows little distress upon separation and avoids the caregiver upon reunion, and anxious-ambivalent (or anxious-resistant), where the child is clingy, distressed by separation, and ambivalent upon reunion. A fourth category, disorganized attachment, is characterized by contradictory behaviors.

The quality of early attachment experiences is thought to influence an individual's relationships throughout life, forming internal working models that guide expectations and behaviors in future social interactions. Secure attachment is generally associated with positive outcomes, including better emotional regulation, higher self-esteem, and more successful relationships. Conversely, insecure attachment patterns can be linked to difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, as well as increased risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Factors such as caregiver sensitivity, responsiveness, and the consistency of care play a significant role in shaping attachment styles.