Review All Of The Learning Resources For This Discussion
Review All Of The Learning Resources For This Discussion Then Locate
Review all of the learning resources for this discussion. Then, locate a journal article (not a website) from the UMUC Library databases that identifies a theory in the social sciences. You may be able to find a theory in one of your articles that you have been reviewing for your final project. In your own words, explain why is theory important in research. What is the name of the theory mentioned in your article?
From what discipline does it draw? (e.g., anthropology, sociology, gerontology, social psychology) Is this a grand, mid-range, or macro level theory? Explain your response. What are the main tenets of your theory as described in your article? Does the research support or refute the theory you’ve selected? Explain your response. Post a .pdf or URL link so that the class can see the article you are referencing.
Paper For Above instruction
Theoretical frameworks serve as foundational pillars in social science research, guiding the formulation of hypotheses, interpretation of data, and understanding of social phenomena. Identifying and understanding a theory from scholarly literature enhances the depth and rigor of research. For this assignment, I selected an article from the UMUC Library databases that examines attachment theory in social psychology, a mid-range theory that delves into the patterns of interpersonal relationships established early in life and their influence throughout the lifespan.
The theory discussed in the article is Bowlby’s Attachment Theory, originating from the field of social psychology and developmental psychology. This theory primarily explores how early attachments between infants and caregivers shape emotional development and social behaviors later in life. The core tenets of attachment theory suggest that early interactions form internal working models that influence future relationships across various contexts, including friendships, romantic relationships, and parental roles (Bowlby, 1969/1982). The theory underscores the importance of a secure attachment in fostering healthy emotional regulation and social competence.
Attachment theory is considered a mid-range theory because it focuses on specific processes within the realm of social and developmental psychology rather than encompassing broad societal structures, which are characteristic of grand or macro theories (Barcleroy et al., 2009). It emphasizes observable behaviors and psychological patterns that develop over time, making it especially pertinent in understanding individual differences in social functioning.
The main tenets of attachment theory include the concept that early caregiver interactions lead to the development of internal models of self and others, which guide expectations and influence future social interactions (Ainsworth, 1978). Secure attachments promote feelings of safety and trust, facilitating exploration and social engagement, whereas insecure attachments can result in difficulties forming and maintaining relationships.
Research findings in the selected article support the validity of attachment theory by demonstrating correlations between attachment styles identified in childhood and relationship satisfaction, emotional regulation, and mental health in adulthood. For example, individuals with secure attachments tend to report more fulfilling relationships and better psychological well-being. Conversely, insecure attachment styles are linked to challenges such as anxiety and avoidance in intimate relationships, corroborating the theory’s predictions about the long-term impacts of early attachment experiences (Hazan & Shaver, 1987).
In conclusion, attachment theory exemplifies how a well-defined social science theory can provide valuable insights into human behavior and relational dynamics. Its focus on early developmental processes makes it a powerful tool for understanding various social phenomena. The research in the article supports the core assumptions of attachment theory, reinforcing its relevance and applicability in contemporary social psychology.
References
Ainsworth, M. D. S. (1978). Patterns of attachment: A psychological study of the Strange Situation. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
Barcleroy, K. R., Coreil, J., Bryant, J., Allison, J., & Brown, V. (2009). Community-based participatory research: A promising approach for increasing epidemiology’s relevance and impact. Preventing Chronic Disease, 6(3), A94.
Bowlby, J. (1982). Attachment and loss: Vol. 1. Attachment (2nd ed.). Basic Books. (Original work published 1969)
Hazan, C., & Shaver, P. (1987). Romantic love conceptualized as an attachment process. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 52(3), 511–524.