Worksheets

The Assumptions of the Attachment Theory

The attachment theory is based on the idea that all humans are biologically programmed to seek comfort and safety through proximity to a reliable and protective caregiver (Choate & Tortorelli, 2022). The theory is also based on the assumption that neurophysiological systems, which are common features in infants or individuals, and the variations among individuals in the caregiver's behavior are essential in forming diverse categories of attachment.

The problem in the chosen case study from the perspective of the attachment theory

Based on the case scenario, the patient needs a trusting relationship with her mother. The critical problem is that the abuse from the father and the present environment does not provide emotional and mental chances to connect to her father. In this case, the attachment theory includes all vital elements of life during childbirth and significantly impacting on the future of a child in terms of the ability to develop an attachment to other persons (Choate & Tortorelli, 2022). In the case scenario, Schultz has formed a more robust attachment with their peers but still requires support and a good relationship with her father. Consequently, she is experiencing some form of grief at losing such a relationship. Despite having an unhealthy relationship with their parents, she is still grieving and experiencing a disorganized life pattern.

The assessment questions guided by the attachment theory to be asked to help in understanding how stress or distress, bond, and environment are impacting the client.

Based on the attachment theory, the case of Schultz is the lack of bond with the caregivers such as the father. Therefore, she will be asked how stress or distress, environment, and bond affect her (Choate & Tortorelli, 2022). She is asked about some of the positive aspects of her father and the potential cause of drug addiction to his father. She can also be asked to describe her childhood experience on whether there was a good relationship with her parents.

The two interventions to help in addressing the issue

Addressing the problems in the case scenario requires the adoption of the aspects from the attachment theory. The patient is provided free space to understand her opinion about attachment. She can also give details about family attachment and how it affects its relationship (Choate & Tortorelli, 2022). Understanding how the patient is presently dealing with the requires inquiry into some of her coping skills. In this case, she is asked about methods to tolerate the impact of poor attachment and relationship with the parents. After learning coping skills, she is advised to practice procedures such as reading, engaging in conversation with friends, walking, and using her cell phone to play games or watch comedies or movies.

Self-reflective questions influenced by the attachment theory to be asked to gain greater empathy for what is experienced by the client.

The patient in the case scenario requires a successful session to help address the presented issues. Such sessions are vital since they allow her to identify the positive aspects of her past life when growing up and identify what worked well for the family and what did not. It is also crucial for a provider to understand the relationship between the families. This is important in identifying the key trigger of the present issue.

References

Choate, P., & Tortorelli, C. (2022). Attachment theory: a barrier for indigenous children involved with child protection. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(14), 8754.