Factors that influence the quality of attachment relationships

The degree of consistent, sensitive and responsive care a parent/caregiver provides determines whether a child forms a secure or insecure attachment with that caregiver. Many factors within the family, including environment, characteristics of the caregiver, and characteristics of the child affect the ability of the caregiver to respond in a sensitive and consistent manner to the child.

Characteristics of a caregiver and his or her environment that can have an impact on the caregiver’s ability to respond sensitively and consistently to the attachment needs of the child include; insecure attachment with own parent’s, unresolved mourning or trauma, depression, mental health problems, domestic violence, separation/divorce, alcohol/drug abuse, health problems, and stress generally.

Characteristics of a child that can have an impact on the caregiver’s ability to sensitively meet the needs of the child include; chronic illness or disability, difficult temperament, and having experienced disruption of the child’s relationship with their primary caregiver. Death or loss of a caregiver can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to form or maintain secure attachments.