Humans and animals share similar attachment behaviours.
Many psychologists think this points to an evolutionary basis for attachment.
Real-world example: Think about how dogs become devoted to their owners, showcasing a strong attachment.
Konrad lorenz & imprinting
Konrad Lorenz did a lot of work studying imprinting, a rapid and instinctive form of learning that happens at a critical life stage.
Example: Baby birds imprint on their parents and follow them around, instinctively mimicking their behaviour.
Lorenz experimented with baby geese (goslings). He found out that they would imprint on the first moving thing they saw after hatching. Even his wading boots!
Imprinting suggests attachment is a genetic program that's triggered by certain environmental cues.
However, Lorenz believed that if the critical period for imprinting was missed, it wouldn't occur.
Limitation: Imprinting doesn't explain all aspects of attachment, such as the emotional bond between a caregiver and a child.
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Humans and animals share similar attachment behaviours.
Many psychologists think this points to an evolutionary basis for attachment.
Real-world example: Think about how dogs become devoted to their owners, showcasing a strong attachment.
Konrad lorenz & imprinting
Konrad Lorenz did a lot of work studying imprinting, a rapid and instinctive form of learning that happens at a critical life stage.
Example: Baby birds imprint on their parents and follow them around, instinctively mimicking their behaviour.
Lorenz experimented with baby geese (goslings). He found out that they would imprint on the first moving thing they saw after hatching. Even his wading boots!
Imprinting suggests attachment is a genetic program that's triggered by certain environmental cues.
However, Lorenz believed that if the critical period for imprinting was missed, it wouldn't occur.
Limitation: Imprinting doesn't explain all aspects of attachment, such as the emotional bond between a caregiver and a child.
Unlock the Full Content!
Dive deeper and gain exclusive access to premium files of Psychology HL. Subscribe now and get closer to that 45 🌟