The starting point to address this important question involves understanding the meaning of attachment. In broad terms, attachment refers to the enduring and profound emotional bond we establish with others. Relationships marked by attachment are often characterized by a natural inclination for nearness, fostering the growth of a sense of security.

According to Dr. Karla Díaz, Academic Coordinator of the Master’s program in Education at CETYS University International Campus in Ensenada, Psychology put forth a theory about this bond as early as the 1950s, pioneered by psychologist and psychoanalyst John Bowlby. This perspective emphasizes the consequence of the dynamics that unfold between parents and children.

«To be more specific, the theory sheds light on how attachment impacts our social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Through this research, we’ve come to understand that the foundation of the primary attachment relationship is laid between mother, father, and child from the moment we enter the world. It’s pivotal that, as parents, we remain consistently available and responsive to our children’s needs. This guidance plays a role in nurturing their development and cultivating a sense of security. It’s worth noting that unwavering trust in the accessibility and support offered by attachment figures lays the groundwork for a stable personality and self-assuredness. This trust is particularly solidified during a child’s early years,» shared the CETYS expert.

Furthermore, Attachment Theory identifies four attachment styles that develop in response to the care we receive during infancy: anxious-ambivalent, avoidant, disorganized, and secure.

Dr. Karla Díaz explained that secure attachment largely hinges on the consistency with which adults provide care and security. Children who experience this form of attachment exhibit active behaviors, confidently engage with their surroundings, and display emotional resonance. They form close emotional bonds with others and are untroubled by the fear of abandonment. Thus, secure attachment encompasses feeling loved, accepted, and valued, with unconditional emotional connections as its defining feature.

Moving forward, the CETYS Expert outlines a series of steps for nurturing secure attachment with children:

The first step involves having a secure base figure, often a mother, father, or close relative. This internal secure base provides us with a sense of control over the world around us. The second aspect involves fostering emotional resonance. This entails comprehending the mental state of children and promptly addressing their needs to ensure they feel secure, recognized and attended to.

The third element revolves around reenacting experiences that exemplify this attachment style. While the quality of interactions holds utmost importance, the quantity of such interactions also plays a pivotal role. Neuroscience studies provide evidence of how repeated attachment experiences tend to solidify affective neural networks.

The fourth aspect pertains to unconditional acceptance, which involves distinguishing the child from their behavior. Instead of phrases like «you’re so clumsy,» statements like «I’m sure next time you’ll be more careful to avoid falling» are recommended.

The fifth consideration involves avoiding overprotection. Even though it’s natural for parents to experience fear, anger, or anxiety over potential risks their children face, adults must acknowledge their emotions without transmitting them. Allowing children to explore their limits and capabilities in alignment with their age and developmental stage becomes essential.

The sixth component presents a significant challenge—it centers on emotional literacy. This entails articulating emotions, expressing what one feels, thinks, or does. This practice aids children in self-understanding and ultimately achieving self-regulation.

The seventh aspect involves establishing appropriate rules and boundaries from infancy. Anticipating and making behavior expectations predictable is crucial.

Ultimately, establishing a secure attachment is grounded in aligning with the emotional and physical needs of children. «Secure attachment takes root in unconditional love and consistent boundaries. According to authors like Delgado and Oliva-Delgado, our personality, how we engage with others, manage our emotions, and even select partners are influenced by the type of attachment formed during childhood. The encouraging news is that attachment can evolve; it’s malleable over time through interactions with our environment and others,» concludes Dr. Karla Díaz.