Positive Attachment Figures

Most children have a few attachment figures in their lives. An attachment figure typically cares for the child physically and emotionally, is someone the child can count on, and has an emotional attachment to the child. Most grandparents raising grandchildren meet these standards.

People who have a positive attachment relationship with a child share the following characteristics:

• Sensitive
• Loving
• Available
• Close by
• Stable
• Open
• Responsive
• Affectionate
• Trustworthy
• Consistent

Although most children develop several attachment relationships, the quality of these relationships may be different. Four types of attachment relationships have been studied: one is a secure type and three are insecure types. The secure attachment relationship is ideal for a child's healthy development. A child with an insecure attachment relationship may... 

•  avoid close relationships
• feel conflicted about close relationships or
• feel confused and fearful about close relationships.

Many studies have examined children's attachment relationships and their effects on development. A good relationship with a positive attachment figure can have important, long-lasting effects on a child's development. A healthy relationship is shown to:

• enhance a child's pretend play
• promote a child's healthy exploration
• enrich a child's educational experiences in school
• lead to healthy self-concepts and self-understanding
• increase a child's confidence
• increase a child's learning through experimentation
• lead to positive relationships with friends.

From: "The Importance of Close Relationships, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, University of Wisconsin Extension

Authors

Julie Poehlmann, Ph. D.Assistant Professor Human Development and Family Studies, Waisman Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Mary Brintnall-Peterson, Ph. D. Professor, Family Living Programs, University of Wisconsin–Extension

Rebecca Shlafer Research InternHuman Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Kari Morgan, Ph. D Former Program Specialist Family Living Programs, University of Wisconsin Extension