The importance of secure attachment for infant mental health

Attachment theory has provided both a language of relationships and a wide body of research that has confirmed just how important a positive and joyful relationship between babies and their parents can be. Secure attachment, which is built up by everyday sensitive and appropriately responsive parenting, means a child will be more likely to grow up in a way that will enable them to make the most of their life's opportunities. On the other hand, very insecure attachment, which often is a marker for maltreatment, puts the child at a greatly increased risk for exhibiting a range of antisocial behaviour, as well as significant emotional and mental health difficulties in later life.