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Attachment Theory Case Study

856 Words4 Pages

Introduction The purpose of this discussion paper is to discuss a specific issue of the client, Laura, and the intervention model of Attachment Theory. Key features of the intervention model will be addressed, as well as the manner in which the model will be applied to a specific issue experienced by the client. Each of these aspects will be discussed in regards to their helpfulness in the intervention. Issue Statement Laura’s case study suggests many issues; however, only one will be specifically addressed. For the purpose of this discussion, the client’s issue revolving around the current relationship with her mother will be addressed. Historically, Laura’s relationship with her mother was one of abuse and emotional distance. Her …show more content…

This specific model was chosen based on the belief that therapeutic change may occur within an emotionally significant relationship. Additionally, this model enables us to reflect on her relationship histories and how those affect her current and future relationships. There are several key features of this intervention model that will be addressed to create the needed change and produce positive results in the intervention. The first key feature of Attachment Theory is the activation and deactivation of behavioral systems. These systems are a set of behaviors activated by environmental stimuli. The attachment system is activated in order to reconnect with a person that provides them emotional safety. The exploratory system allows a person to explore their surrounding environment. Also, the fear/wariness system is used to withdraw from frightening and distressing situations. Another key feature of Attachment Theory are internal working models. These working models are created patterns of attachment, usually formed during childhood development, that affect relational attachments in adulthood. These models represent feelings about oneself and others, which contribute to their behavior in their relationships with others. A person’s internal models are usually subconscious, but can change with a cumulative experience, either positive or …show more content…

By establishing a worker/client relationship, this will provide Laura with a secure base to operate from in the future. She will be able to confidently explore her historical, current, and future relationship with her mother knowing that she can receive comfort and reassurance from me, her social worker. Once she recognizes this secure base, I will assist her in discovering how she currently handles her relationship with her mother. During this relational discovery process with her mother, I will also allow her to explore her relationship with me, showing Laura how her previous ways of dealing with others could be positively changed through the change of her various internal behavioral models. Through this social worker and client relationship exploration, Laura will discover how her current perceptions of her mother are connected to expectations from their relationship when she was a child, providing her the opportunity to view the current relationship differently. Also, I will assist Laura to understand her own internal working models that were established by past experiences and how they need to be changed in order to establish and positively operate within her current and future

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