Attachment from Infancy to Adulthood: The Major Longitudinal Studies

by Klaus E. Grossmann

This volume provides unique and valuable firsthand accounts of the most important longitudinal studies of attachment. Presented are a range of research programs that have broadened our understanding of attachment in and outside of the family context and its role in individual adaptation throughout life. In addition to discussing the pivotal findings that emerged from each study, leading investigators offer rare reflections on the process of scientific discovery. Themes addressed include the complexities of designing studies that span years or even decades; challenges in translating theoretical constructs into age-appropriate assessments; the ways in which Bowlby's original models have been refined and elaborated; and how attachment interacts with other key variables that shape individual developmental trajectories.

Genres: Psychology

Paperback

First published March 21, 2005

Reviews

[Ruth Minkov · Rating 3 out of 5]

Felt it was a bit too specific to research in specific aspects of early attachment - there was too little attention paid to adult attachment.

[Corey Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A useful overview of the most important longitudinal studies of attachment theory, with contributions from some of the biggest names in the field. This book is NOT a practical manual for parents and therapists, nor is it a book for the casual reader. For those with an academic interest in attachment theory, however, this book is essential reading. The autobiographical material at the beginning of each chapter is a nice touch and adds a historical and human element to the work. My sole complaint is that sometimes the authors could have provided additional details about their empirical findings, but this is a minor issue since these details can be found in the original resesarch reports.