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 early close relationships and their role in individual adaptation throughout life. In addition to discussing the 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; how Bowlby's original models have been refined and expanded; and how attachment interacts with other key influences on development.
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.