Differences between the 2 attachment theories.

Differences between the 2 attachment theories.

1. BOWLBY'S THEORY

   • Attachments are innate, they are too important to be left to the process of learning.
     • Human babies are genetically programmed to form attachments.
       • Early attachments form the basis of future relationships.
         • Babies use social releases to encourage adults to interact with them.

2. THE LEARNING THEORY

   • Attachments are learnt.
     • Attachments are formed to the caregiver who feeds the baby.
       • They are learnt through classical conditioning.
         • The child learns to associate the comfort and security of the caregiver with feeding.