Contributos da teoria da vinculação para a prática clínica desenvolvimental

Abstract

Attachment individual differences are early conditions that, in the context of the interaction between biologic and environmental factors, play a dynamic role in the individuals’ bio-psycho-social functioning. This paper presents a brief literature review on attachment theory and research and aims to contribute to a developmental clinical perspective. Attachment research shows us the effects on infants, and children, of early experiences that are associated with: (a) out of home care systems; (b) separations; (c) significant caregiving dysfunctions; (d) the characteristics of children with special needs. We also present guidelines to clinical intervention since relational issues are central to infants’ healthy development.