ABSTRACT
This chapter commences with an exploration of the work on attachment by John Bowlby from 1956 onwards, his work with James and Joyce Robertson in the 1960s and subsequent research that has opposed or questioned some of these earlier theories and findings. It considers the evolution of attachment theory and the changes that may have occurred. The chapter focuses on attachment between baby and Mother or first carer. International perspectives on attachment theory are introduced as further study in order to promote reflection on practice in the different childcare and educational settings internationally and in the United Kingdom. However, understanding emotional development and the complexity of secure and insecure attachments and separation anxiety is very difficult because, as identified by Bowlby, there are so many variables to each situation. Analysis of the filmed observations drew the attention of professionals such as doctors, nurses and social workers to the effects of separation on very young children when admitted to hospital.
