Attachment theory posits that the need for attachment is a life-long phenomenon that becomes especially relevant in times of crisis or trauma. When adults experience illness, accidents, assaults, psychological difficulties or losses, their attachment-behavioural systems are activated, motivating them to seek help and support from family and friends and/or from helping professionals. However, the resulting request for help is affected and shaped by earlier experiences regarding the support and trustworthiness of attachment figures.
Key Features
- Integrated introduction to the subject of adult attachment.
- Theoretically sound insights into the dynamics underlying a range of client behaviours.
- Improves engagement between professionals and clients in treatment settings.
- Relevant for psychotherapists, psychologists, and social workers, both in practice and in training.
Additional Information
Can others be trusted? Is it safe to show vulnerability? How should one behave to increase the likelihood of receiving the help needed? Research into adult attachment patterns offers professional helpers insight into some of the more puzzling and frustrating behaviours such as denying obvious pain or continually pushing the professional for more personal involvement. Sarah Daniel shows how applying knowledge of attachment patterns to treatment settings will improve the organization of treatments.
