1. The development of a secure base
Attachment theory
The development of a secure base

2. Attachment theory John Bowlby (1953)
A child’s strong attachment to a main carer is essential for healthy emotional development.
A secure attachment:
creates a safe haven for protect from danger
provides a secure base to explore from
strongly influences early personality, organisation and the child's concept of self.
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3. First year attachment cycle
Developing a positive ‘internal working model’, John Bowlby (1953)
Infant has needs
Needs are expressed
Needs are fulfilled
Relief and relaxation
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4. Developing a healthy attachment
Carer:
Providing a consistent structure.
Responding with attunement and empathy (responding to the child’s needs).
Providing positive emotional responses (nurture, physical contact, warmth and communication). 
Showing love and caring commitment.
(Ref. Levy, T., Attachment, Trauma and Healing: Understanding and Treating Attachment Disorder in Children and Families, Child Welfare League of America, 1998)
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5. Attachment disorder Contributing factors Parents/carers
abuse, neglect, abandonment (taken into care)
depression, mental illness, substance abuse
family history (attachment difficulties, separation, loss)
Child
premature, medical conditions, hospitalisation, failure to thrive
difficult temperament, prolonged infantile colic
Environmental
poverty
violence
stress
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