Critically discuss what Attachment Theory offers to our understanding of the aetiology of psychological disorders and discuss any treatment implications.

Attachment essay questions

With reference to at least two psychological disorders outline the association between adult attachment patterns and psychological disorders. Evaluate the claim that there is a strong relationship between child attachment patterns and chances of later (adult) psychopathology, and consider the implications. Critically discuss what Attachment Theory offers to our understanding of the aetiology of psychological disorders and discuss any treatment implications.

Mood disorders

  • Key areas: link between attachment and mood disorders/specific disorders

 

  • Possible areas to focus:

Association

Specific disorders

Causal, or outcome of disorder?

Risk, protection, cause, or trigger?

Implications – e.g., for understanding disorder or treatments

 

References to use

Peter Fonagy, Anna Freud Centre Chief Executive: What is Mentalization? interview – YouTube