1 SENTENCE SUMMARY: This book explores the importance of early relationships in forming our attachment styles and how these styles shape our lives.
“Secure attachment is the foundation for lifelong relationships that provide a sense of safety, security, and acceptance.”
Quick Info

Category: Parenting
Publish Date: 1905-06-20
# Pages: 498
ISBN: 0195115015
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Table of Contents
Overview
Becoming Attached, written by Robert Karen, is an exploration of the importance of attachment in the development of infants and children.
Drawing on both scientific research and personal anecdotes, the author examines the evolution of attachment theory and its role in the development of secure and healthy relationships.
The book provides an in-depth look at how attachment helps to shape the way children perceive the world around them and how it influences their behavior and emotions in later life.
It ultimately argues that secure attachments are essential to the development of healthy and meaningful relationships.
4 Key Lessons from Becoming Attached by Robert Karen
1. Secure Attachment is the Foundation for Healthy Development
Becoming Attached explains how secure attachment is the foundation for healthy development.
This means that secure attachment is essential for a child to develop into a healthy, well-adjusted adult.
Secure attachment is not only essential for emotional development; it’s also essential for developing cognitive abilities, social skills, and physical health.
Secure attachment is created when an infant is given consistent and sensitive care, and it helps the child gain a sense of trust and security in the world.
When a child has a secure attachment with their caregivers, they are more likely to develop the skills necessary for relationships with others and for future learning.
2. Attachment Styles can be Changed
Becoming Attached explains that attachment styles can be changed.
This means that, even if a person had an insecure attachment style earlier in life, it is possible to develop a secure attachment if the right conditions are in place.
With supportive and consistent care, a person can learn to trust and rely on others, which can help them develop a secure attachment.
This can be done through a variety of techniques, such as therapy, mindfulness and self-care.
3. Attachment Styles Affect Adult Relationships
Becoming Attached explains that attachment styles affect adult relationships.
This means that the attachment style a person has as an adult is often a result of the kind of attachment they had as a child.
A secure attachment as a child will often lead to secure attachments as an adult, while an insecure attachment can lead to difficulties forming relationships and trusting others.
Understanding how attachment styles affect adult relationships can help a person to understand their own difficulties in forming relationships and to make changes to create healthier relationships.
4. Attachment Styles Impact Mental Health
Becoming Attached explains that attachment styles can have a significant impact on mental health.
This means that the attachment style a person has can have a direct effect on their mental well-being.
An insecure attachment style can lead to difficulties in forming relationships, as well as anxiety and depression.
Conversely, a secure attachment style can lead to greater emotional resilience, improved self-esteem and better relationships.
Understanding the impact of attachment styles on mental health can help a person to understand their own difficulties and to develop a healthier attachment style.
Who Should Read It
This book is ideal for parents, teachers, and counselors, who are interested in learning more about the development of secure attachments in children, as well as individuals who want to gain a better understanding of the role of attachment in their lives.
Where to Get It
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About Robert Karen
Robert Karen is a psychologist, psychoanalyst and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, who has written widely on the psychology of attachment.
He is the author of the book “Becoming Attached: First Relationships and How They Shape Our Capacity to Love.” In this book, Karen explores the origins of attachment and examines how it shapes our emotional lives.
He draws on his own clinical experience, research and theories to explain the biological, psychological and social implications of attachment.
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Over to You
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Simon

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