ABSTRACT
This chapter looks across the field of attachment theory and practice. Theory is illustrated with an extended case study where matters of a disorganised attachment were replayed in the work with a nine-year-old child. In the case account we can see how attachment theory was a basis to understanding some co-occurring dynamics, in particular the transgenerational transmission of trauma. Further, we consider the nature of attachment to peers both in and outside of school, taking a look at the notion of community, citizenship, and belonging. We argue that understanding attachment theory is an essential ingredient for all counsellors and psychotherapists working in primary schools, and also that it is a helpful idea for parents trying to understand their relationship with their children. Finally, getting to grips with attachment can be useful for teachers in aiding them in relationship building with children across a period of time.
