Attachment is the emotional bond that forms between the infant and the caregiver , and it is how the helpless infant gets primary needs met. It then becomes an engine of subsequent social, emotional, and cognitive development. An infant's early social experience stimulates the growth of the brain and can influence the formation of stable relationships with others.
What Is Attachment? (Plain Language Explanation)
Attachment refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Attachment
- Symptoms: The specific ways attachment shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen attachment
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When attachment occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Attachment
- Attachment is far more common than most people realize
- Attachment is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with attachment see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about attachment is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing attachment, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.