Attachment Theory In Social Work

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“The kind of adult into which we grow is not only a product of our biological nature, it is also the result of the myriad interactions we have with those around us through the formative years of our psychological development” (Howe, 1995, Pg.1). Therefore, it is critical that Social Workers are aware of and understand the impact that interactions have on individuals across the life course. This is understood through the knowledge of various theories, which are then used to evaluate the importance of social work practice in relation to attachment and loss. The theories used will be; attachment theory, Erikson’s psychosocial theory, Bronfenbrenner, brain development, vulnerability matrix and the resilience chart. Bowlby and Ainsworths approach to attachment explains how three specific attachments, formed at a young age, affect an individual’s ability to form attachment throughout their life. As a Social Worker, using this approach could support them in understanding why individuals make certain attachments or why attachments cannot be made. It could also aid the Social Worker in adapting their approach when working with the service user. These attachments are, secure, ambivalent and avoidant, they focus solely on a child’s attachment with their primary care giver. For a child, the secure attachment is created from consistent contact and regular care from one person. This person will also be the child’s secure base, for example, when the child feels no discomfort or threat they will explore their surroundings knowing they have their secure base to return to (Sudbery, 2010, Pg.53). A secure attachment can also contribute to resilience in an individual due to feeling loved and valued by their family and friends. “Resilience refers to... ... middle of paper ... ...ring this stage this is when they find out how to fit in. Having an understanding of this stage will enable the Social Worker to support the individual during this transition. In conclusion, the need for Social Workers to understand theories relating to attachment and loss is important. Each theory explained has a contribution to understanding an individual if used in practice. Also Social Workers have to work to social policy, this means working to the legislations guidelines and activities which promote human well-being. It also means dealing with issues such as culture and discrimination. Social workers working by this will be able to provide the support an individual needs to deal with situations such as insecure attachments at a young age or losses which have occurred throughout their lives. After all how we are brought into the world determines how we leave.

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