An Evalution of the Attachment Theory

THE ATTACHMENT THEORY

AN EVALUTION OF THE ATTACHMENT THEORY

WHEN WORKING WITH CHILDREN IN CARE

Gail Walters

Dissertation

Social Work BA (HONS)

Manchester Metropolitan University

Tutor: Pauline Black

CONTENTS

Pages

Abstract 3

Acknowledgements 4

Statement of Ownership 5

Chapter1: Introduction

1. An Introduction to the Attachment Theory 7

2. Aims of the Study 9

Chapter 2: Methodology

2.1 Literature Review & Theoretical Considerations 12

2.2 Secondary Research - qualitative or quantitative 15

2.3 Information gathering & Content Analysis 16

Chapter 3: Literature Review

Applying the Attachment Theory when working with Looked after Children

3.1. Part 1 - Early Attachment Theories, Criticisms & Findings 20

3.2. Part 2 - Emotional and Behavioural difficulties 28

3.3 Part 3 - Effects on Child Development 35

Chapter 4: Critical overview & Conclusion

4.1 Critical overview 43

4.2 Recommendations & Conclusion 45

References 48

Appendices

1. Dissertation Proposal 54

2. Ethical Check Form 63

3. Maslow’s ‘hierarchy of needs ‘ 64

Word Count – 9490 (excluding preliminary pages and references)

ABSTRACT

This research set out to evaluate the ‘Attachment Theory’ which is central to Child Practitioners working with Looked after Children. The ‘Social Care Institute for Excellence’ (SCIE) was established by the Government in 2001 to improve Social Services for Adults &

References: Maslow’s hierarchy of needs (Based on Maslow,1954)