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Theory and observation of attachment and its relation to child maltreatment: a review

N Morton1, K D Browne

  • 1School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, UK.

Child Abuse & Neglect
|November 25, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Child maltreatment can be transmitted across generations. Early insecure attachment, stemming from maternal insensitivity, creates relationship difficulties, perpetuating a cycle of maltreatment.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Child Psychiatry
  • Attachment Theory

Background:

  • Child maltreatment is a significant public health issue with potential long-term consequences.
  • The intergenerational transmission of maltreatment suggests a cyclical pattern across generations.
  • Attachment theory provides a framework for understanding early relational patterns and their impact.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on attachment and child maltreatment.
  • To explore the relationship between attachment quality and the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment.
  • To analyze studies focusing on attachment in maltreated child populations.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review.
  • Descriptive analysis of 13 studies examining attachment quality in maltreated children.
  • Synthesis of findings related to early mother-infant interactions and attachment security.

Main Results:

  • Infant attachment quality is strongly influenced by maternal sensitivity.
  • Maltreated children exhibit lower rates of secure attachment compared to non-maltreated children.
  • Internalization of early relational experiences creates a prototype for future relationships, potentially leading to difficulties in peer, partner, and parental relationships.

Conclusions:

  • Insecure attachment resulting from early maltreatment is a primary mechanism for the intergenerational transmission of maltreatment.
  • Understanding this process is crucial for developing effective prediction and prevention strategies for childhood maltreatment.
  • Interventions targeting early mother-infant relationships may disrupt the cycle of maltreatment.
Abstract

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