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Major Movements in Psychology

Attachment Theory

What characterizes dismissing adults ?

A dismissing adult corresponds to an avoidant infant. Attachment is devalued and dismissed by these adults with a concomitant emphasis on thought separated from emotion. An idealized picture of childhood attachment relationships is presented though it is not backed up by supporting memories. The adult may describe his or her mother as “fine, normal, and a good mother” but only provide memories such as “Well, you know, she was always there. She was just a normal mother.” The impression is of a cool, distant relationship with minimal recognition of the child’s emotional need for the parent.



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