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Attachment Theory Paper

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Attachment Style and Romantic Relationships Research Paper Attachment theory has been of interest to many fields of study, from psychology to ethology, even biology and evolution. The developmental implications of the theory can be applied to different personalities, why we actively seek partners or long term relationships, or simply to explain why an infant may cry when its mother leaves the room. Although the initial implications were intended to explain the response of children when separated from their caregivers, research has proven its application to adult relationships, showing patterns of behavior based on attachment theory terminology. This paper explores the different aspects in which attachment theory is applied in adult relationships, such as finding a partner, predictability, and evolutionary purpose of caring for offspring. This paper also analyzes the spiritual application of attachment theory, and what it means to have a secure attachment with God.
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The name suggests the purpose of this theory, Bowlby wanted to explain the bonds infants develop with a primary caregiver as well as the previously mentioned negative reactions or distress in their separation with them (Hazan & Shaver, 1987). Bowlby observed that in separation, an infant will go through a series of predictable emotional reactions, such as protest, despair, and detachment (Hazan & Shaver, 1987). In protest, the child may actively search for their mother, cry, and resist any attempts of comfort from others. In despair, the infant shows passivity and sadness. Finally, in detachment, the child may seem defensive and can be avoidance of the mother when and if she

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