The construction of affectionate bonds in adverse developmental contexts: importance and polemics

Abstract

This manuscript discusses how Attachment Theory provides some basis for policies and practices of early child education and protection. Starting with some thoughts about what makes us human, some concepts and historical notes about Attachment Theory are presented, pointing to its positive and negative influences on adoption and foster care for children and adolescents. Thinking about the construction of affectionate bonds in adverse developmental contexts on the basis of our studies in that area, we point to some misunderstandings and to the field of “announced psychopathologies” which is often created, suggesting the need to expand the discussion beyond the mother-child dyad, in order to encompass the current diversity of family organizations. Finally, we suggest that a new paradigm is required to cope with the complexity of the theme, a contextual and systemic perspective able to apprehend the situated and interactive construction of affectionate relationships and the effects of its ruptures.