The attachment theory was conceived by John Bowlby. The theorists argued that relationships between children and their primary caregivers influence their development significantly. Bowlby described attachment as an emotional bond that connects one person to another (Moss, 2016). Bowlby assumed that attachment or bonding behaviors are adaptive to enhance the ability of an individual to survive (Moss, 2016). He also assumed that various cues and events influence the tendency of children to be inclined to familiar individuals, especially during early stages of development. Another assumption of the attachment theory is that children develop the need to seek attachment to their primary caregivers based on their encounters with caregivers. Attachment and experiences with caregivers influence the perceptions, beliefs, expectations, emotions, and behaviors about the self and other individuals (Foley, Nash " Munford, 2017). This argument can be demonstrated by various examples from Tiffani Bradley case study. This paper employs the attachment theory to analyze and interpret various phenomena in the case study.
Children should get strong emotional support and response from their caregivers, especially their mothers. Therefore, Tiffani needed attachments from her mother and other individuals she was familiar with. Even after the age of 8 years, Tiffani needed a protective, supportive, and safe environment for her personal development (Foley, Nash " Munford, 2017). However, due to family issues after the age of 8, she could no longer be comfortable in their house. She was in dire need of someone who could give her emotional support. She was unsettled and this explains why she could not control herself and avoid Donald and John. Although Donald misused her, Tiffani feels safe with him because he was a source of attachment and security. She developed negative behaviors, expectations, and perceptions of her life and purpose.
The current state of Tiffani is a product of the instability of her family after the age of eight and abuse by other people. Primarily, the inconsistent and insufficient support, sensitivity and response of her parents towards her concerns and fears were the root cause of the problems (Moss, 2016). Children primarily seek support from a single individual, usually the mother. However, Shondra did not perform the role of a primary caregiver to Tiffani since she neglected her and became less sensitive towards her needs. The mother exposed her to sex inappropriately. The sudden change in her mother’s behavior, especially sexual life and alcoholism, changed her perceptions and expectations. Tiffani felt unsafe in their house and therefore, was left in a vulnerable situation after her uncle Nate started to abuse her sexually. Donald took her vulnerability to his advantage since she had no other option. Donald could have fixed developmental problems caused by the lack of attachment from her mother, but he had selfish motives.
The rehabilitation facility in which she was admitted also did a mistake of not initiating the reunion of Tiffani with her family and Donald. Providing opportunities for meeting these individuals would enable Tiffani to reform and realign her perceptions, beliefs, and expectations to realize a positive behavioral change. Foley, Nash " Munford (2017) argue that the attachment theory is not limited to children and infants only since it is also applicable to teens and adults. Social workers in Teens First have the duty of engaging Tiffani and helping her address her weaknesses appropriately. They should help her connect with her parents and other individuals who are dear to her (Foley, Nash " Munford, 2017). The best way of dealing with this situation is addressing the origin of Tiffani’s current condition. Reuniting Tiffani with her mother would facilitate healing and realization of her purpose. Donald was interested in using her and did not care. Therefore, Tiffani should not choose to go back to Donald. Social workers should provide guidance during the reunion to facilitate a successful reestablishment of attachments to her mother and sister.
Conclusion
The attachment theory provides an excellent explanation of Tiffani situation and contributing factors. It provides the framework for understanding the psychological, emotional, and social development of an individual right from the early stages. The theory is appropriate due to the ethical considerations it takes. As a child, Tiffani had unhealthy relationships with her mother and family members, thereby, affecting her development adversely. Her mother’s misconduct and neglect and abuse by her uncle were the primary cause of Tiffani’s situation. Social workers should create a safe environment where Tiffani and her family can reunite. The reunion would help her to develop new perspectives on her expectations, behaviors, beliefs, relationships, and personal goals.
References
Foley, M., Nash, M., " Munford, R. (2017). Bringing practice into theory: Reflective practice and attachment theory. Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work, 21(1-2), 39-47.
Moss, S. (2016). The attachment Theory. Sico Tests. Retrieved on 17 March 2018 from https://www.sicotests.com/psyarticle.asp?id=70
