DC 1
What are barriers that can get in the way a secure attachment between and infant and their adult caregiver? Assuming all parents are doing their best, think about all of the reasons why a parent or caregiver may struggle to provide a nurturing, responsive relationship.
Choose at least 2 reasons/examples and explain how those barriers affect the relationship.
Draw from your observations, experience, your own research, or the course content.
Parenting DC 2
Reflect on the course content about parenting styles.
Choose ONE option:
OPTION 1 – Your own family: Tell us about growing up in your family. What parenting styles did you grow up with? How did your parents’ parenting styles influence your life and behaviors as a child? What is something you would change if/when parenting your own children? What is something you want to keep the same and pass on to your children?
OPTION 2 – Your observation: Tell us what you observe in other parents & families. Describe an example of the parenting style of someone you’ve observed (without using names or identifying information). How do you think the parenting style influences the life and behaviors of the child? What is something you would personally change when/if parenting your own children? What is something you would want to learn/take from this parenting style when/if parenting your own children?
OPTION 3 – A media family: Tell us what you observe in a parent or family on a TV series or movie. Describe the parenting style you observe. How do you think the parenting style would affect children shown or children in real life? What is something you would personally change when/if parenting your own children? What is something you would want to learn/take from this parenting style when/if parenting your own children?
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
In this assignment, we will address two different questions related to attachment and parenting styles. The first question explores the barriers that can hinder a secure attachment between an infant and their adult caregiver. The second question allows for reflection on parenting styles either based on personal experiences, observations of other parents and families, or analysis of parenting styles portrayed in media. Without mentioning personal identity, we will provide insightful answers based on research, observations, and course content.
Answer to DC 1:
There are several barriers that can interfere with the development of a secure attachment between an infant and their adult caregiver. Despite parents doing their best, certain circumstances and factors can impede the establishment of a nurturing and responsive relationship.
One such barrier is the caregiver’s mental health issues. Parents who experience mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety, may find it challenging to provide consistent emotional support and responsiveness to their infants. This lack of emotional availability can hinder the development of secure attachment, as infants rely on their caregivers for emotional regulation and soothing. The inconsistent or inadequate responses to their needs can lead to feelings of insecurity and anxiety in the infant.
Another barrier is a caregiver’s history of insecure attachment or trauma. Individuals who have not experienced secure attachments themselves may struggle to form healthy attachment bonds with their own children. Past trauma or adverse experiences can influence the caregiver’s ability to trust, connect, and engage with their infant. They may unknowingly repeat patterns of neglect, insensitivity, or even abuse that they have experienced themselves. This can hinder the establishment of a secure attachment as the child’s needs may go unmet, leading to feelings of insecurity and a disrupted attachment bond.
In conclusion, caregivers’ mental health issues and a history of insecure attachment or trauma are two examples of barriers that can impede the development of a secure attachment between an infant and their adult caregiver. These barriers, due to their impact on emotional availability and responsiveness, can lead to an insecure attachment bond and affect the infant’s emotional well-being and future relationships.
Answer to Parenting DC 2:
OPTION 2 – Your observation:
In my observations of other parents and families, I have come across different parenting styles that have a significant influence on the child’s life and behaviors. One notable parenting style I have observed is authoritative parenting. I witnessed a family where the parents were warm, responsive, and set clear boundaries for their children.
The authoritative parenting style had a positive impact on the child’s life and behaviors. The child exhibited confidence, independence, and good self-regulation skills. The parents encouraged open communication and provided guidance while allowing the child to make age-appropriate decisions. This balance of structure and emotional support nurtured the child’s autonomy and self-esteem.
If I were to become a parent, one thing I would personally change is to avoid being too authoritative or controlling. While it is essential to establish boundaries, I would strive to consider my child’s perspective and involve them in decision-making processes. I believe this would foster their sense of autonomy and independence while maintaining a loving and supportive relationship.
Additionally, I would like to learn from authoritative parenting the importance of setting clear expectations and providing consistent guidance. By incorporating these elements into my own parenting style, I aim to create an environment where my future children feel secure, confident, and capable of navigating the challenges of life.
