Describe an evolutionary theory of attachment

One evolutionary theory of attachment is Bowlby‘s theory of monotropy. Attachment is described as innate, as we have a biological need to attach to our main caregiver as it has enabled our survival. Infants are born able to perform certain characteristics, ‘social releasers’, which encourage caregivers to stay close, such as crying and crying. This proximity to the caregiver has a survival value, as it ensures food and protection.Bowlby believed that there was a ‘sensitive period’ during the first 3yrs of an infanthood. If a secure, happy attachment is formed then these attachments will be used as a template for future relationships. However, if weak/broken attachments are formed, these infants are more likely to have difficult relationships in the future. This is called the ‘internal working model’.John Bowlby was a British psychoanalyst (1907-1990) who is most famously known for his pioneering work in attachment theory. He believed that mental health and behavioural problems could be attributed to early childhood.