ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a review on parenting and attachment studies in Portugal, with findings discussed in light of the Dynamic Maturational Model (DMM) of Attachment and Adaptation. The singularity of Portuguese results supports the DMM claim that culture is significant in attachment organization. The Crittenden DMM of Attachment and Adaptation is an evolutionary theory of human attachment and lifespan development model that emphasizes the dynamic interaction of individual maturation with one's contexts, thus offering an evolutionary explanation of the attachment individual strategies. In Portugal historical, educational, economic, and societal factors may contribute to parental stress in their daily lives, but there is a long tradition of "loss" of loved ones. In Portugal, early intervention practices for children with special needs are considered very good; however, there is lack of professional support intervention specific to attachment or preventive practices to support parents at risk for socio-emotional problems.
