The Impact of Adoption on Attachment Theory

Presenter

Samantha Nicole Tenney

Campus

Salem State University

Sponsor

Mari Castañeda, Commonwealth Honors College, Salem State University

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A87, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 5 (A81-A100) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Attachment theory finds itself at the core of developmental psychology. Attachment theory pertains to the relationship formed between a child and its caregiver, and how that relationship can impact cognitive and social tendencies in adolescence and adulthood. There are different styles of attachment that can be formed between child and caregiver. A healthy attachment is one in which the child feels comfortable enough to complete tasks on their own as well as appear to find safety within the presence of their caregiver upon their return. However, if a healthy attachment is not formed, children may become too dependent on their caregiver and experience extreme unease at the idea of independence. The purpose of this study is to explore attachment within the lens of adopted individuals across childhood and adolescence. Its goal is to identify differences in this development between those children who are adopted and those who are not. This study also intends to expose some consequences of an unhealthy attachment; intricacies in social-emotional and cognitive development that arise from such relationships. This research will consist of a literature review aimed to build a collective basin of knowledge on attachment in adopted children. The findings displayed a positive rates of learning ability and social-emotional health, across all populations. The implications of this research stem to parental behavior and community intervention. To ensure the wellbeing of all children and adolescents, it is imperative to support the pillars of a child's socialization. 

Keywords

Children, Attachment, Adoption, Development, Trauma

Research Area

Psychology and Behavioral Sciences

SIMILAR ABSTRACTS (BY KEYWORD)