| Abstract: | Contrasts attachment as a relationship approach for understanding development with relevant psychoanalytic perspectives. Current theoretical and research concepts focusing on affect development and the evolution of the parent–infant relationship are discussed. A broader understanding of attachment is presented, which includes 2 ideas. The 1st is that internal representations build on internal working models of development. The 2nd is that the attachment concept, combined with systems theory, is a way to conceptualize aspects of family theory and therapy. Clinical implications of attachment theory and research are considered. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved) |
