Reviews literature relating to naturalistic and laboratory studies of primates, human bonding, family systems theory, psychoanalytic notions of multiple inner representations, and pathological parenting in child abuse and neglect. Attempts to understand uniqueness of parent-child attachments and unique grief experienced at death of child. Proposes…

Explains attachment theory and posits that, if proper bonding and subsequent attachment, usually between mother and child, does not occur, the child develops mistrust and deep-seated rage. Presents evidence of the problem of attachment disorders, lists symptoms of unattached children, examines treatment of attachment disorders, and discusses…

Attachment theory provides useful conceptual framework for understanding familial antecedents and long-term consequences of sexual abuse. Themes associated with insecure parent-child attachment (rejection, role reversal/parentification, and fear/unresolved trauma) are frequently found in dynamics of families characterized by sexual abuse, and…

Parent-child attachment has been extensively confirmed as a central contributing factor to children's positive developmental outcomes. Theory and research imply that the non-parental caregiver is an important figure that may assist parents in the development of a secure attachment relationship with their infants. Specific practices that increase…

Reviews recent research showing that child and parent, or caregiver and care receiver in nonfamilial, group settings, need each other reciprocally and need to find mutual fit. Focuses on stress laid on importance of dependence support, attachment behavior, and mutuality of caregiver and care receiver. Discusses effect of day care and significance…

A description of infant capabilities and review of perinatal intervention programs are used to clarify the relationship between enhancing parent-infant interactions and preventing child abuse and neglect. Research data demonstrating the efficacy of the programs are reviewed and suggestions offered for the practical application of the programs.…

Recent research on early brain development holds several implications for parents, teachers, health professionals, and policymakers. This report, based on the proceedings from a 1996 national conference on the importance of early brain development for the nation's future well-being, highlights major findings, summarizes their implications for…