Attachment parenting is a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of forming strong bonds between parents and children. This approach has evolved over time, influenced by various theories and practices. Understanding its historical development provides insight into how attachment parenting became a significant movement in child-rearing.
Early Influences and Theories
The roots of attachment parenting can be traced back to the mid-20th century when parenting philosophies began
to shift from disciplinarian methods to more responsive and love-oriented approaches. Influential figures like Benjamin Spock advocated for raising children with common sense and physical contact, challenging earlier doctrines that emphasized discipline and emotional distance. Spock's ideas laid the groundwork for a more empathetic approach to parenting.
In the 1970s, Jean Liedloff introduced the "continuum concept," which suggested that modern child care practices did not meet the evolutionary needs of infants. Liedloff's observations of the Ye'kuana people in Venezuela inspired Western mothers to adopt practices like nursing, babywearing, and co-sleeping. These ideas contributed to the development of attachment parenting by promoting natural and instinct-guided child-rearing.
The Emergence of Attachment Parenting
William Sears, a pediatrician, played a pivotal role in formalizing attachment parenting. In 1982, he coined the term "attachment parenting" after reading Liedloff's work. Initially referred to as "immersion mothering," Sears linked the concept to attachment theory, which describes the bonds between children and caregivers. By 1993, Sears and his wife Martha published "The Baby Book," which became a comprehensive manual for attachment parenting.
The movement gained further momentum with the formation of Attachment Parenting International in 1994, founded by Lysa Parker and Barbara Nicholson. This organization aimed to support parents in adopting attachment parenting practices. The publication of various books and essays, including those by Tammy Frissell-Deppe and Katie Allison Granju, helped popularize the philosophy and provided practical guidance for parents.
Modern Developments and Controversies
Attachment parenting has continued to evolve, with new research and insights contributing to its development. In the 1990s, T. Berry Brazelton's research on newborns' capacity to express emotions further emphasized the importance of parental sensitivity. Despite its popularity, attachment parenting has faced criticism and controversy, particularly regarding its demanding nature and the pressure it places on mothers.
The philosophy has also sparked debates about its impact on women's roles and careers, with critics arguing that it reinforces traditional gender roles. Nonetheless, attachment parenting remains a significant movement, advocating for nurturing and responsive relationships between parents and children.
