 |
| (1684 Painting by Siemiginowski) |
Coined by pediatrician William Sears (the “Dr. Bill” of talk-show fame), the phrase “attachment parenting” rests upon developmental-psychology principles of attachment theory. According to Wikipedia,
the most important tenet of attachment theory is that “an infant needs to develop a relationship with at least one primary caregiver in order for social and emotional development to occur normally.” This works best when that primary caregiver is “sensitive and responsive” to the needs of the child.
The Attachment Parenting website states that this isn’t a new theory, but rather “a return to the instinctual behavior of our ancestors.” The
website further claims that “the newborn’s rooting, sucking, and crying reflexes evolved to ensure the close proximity of a mother” (or other close caregiver) who can be depended upon to meet intense needs. It heralds
breastfeeding (or its substitute “bottle nursing”) as the best way to develop such intimacy.
Other Attachment Parenting
“Commandments” include the following: prepare
for pregnancy, birth and parenting; feed with love and respect; respond with sensitivity; use nurturing touch; ensure safe sleep, physically and emotionally; provide consistent and loving care; practice positive discipline; and strive for balance in your personal and family life.
Since carrying out all eight of these principles (while posing for the cover of Time Magazine, no less) can be quite a feat, Attachment Parenting also provides some burn-out tips. Simplify! Breathe!
Repeat often:
“This too shall pass!”
And don’t forget to “use yoga, meditation or visualization.”
Resources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attachment_theory
http://www.attachmentparenting.org/principles/feed.php
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57432374/time-magazine-cover-of-breastfeeding-mom-sparks-intense-debate-on-attachment-parenting/
No comments:
Post a Comment