EPA-0392 – The Dynamic Maturational Model of Attachment: Use of the Care-index and Prevention of the Dyadic Relationship Disorders in the First Three Years of Life

Abstract

Introduction:

The Attachment theory outlines a theoretical framework considerer more effective than the study of early childhood's relationships. This approach clarifies how early relationships influence the cognitive and emotional development of children in later years. Crittenden(2008) developed an interesting evolutionary perspective beginning, with the establishment of the Dynamic Maturational Model (DMM) with attachment strategy development. Based on this perspective, the development assumption is placed in dynamic interaction with the experience assumption. Further the author argues that it is possible to record attachment changes during specific development phases, to identify reorganization modalities of affective and cognitive processes, and of attachment styles.

Purpose:

The Dynamic Maturational Model of attachment utilizes the CARE-Index tool to assess adult sensitivity in the dyadic context and is assessed taking into account both the caregiver and child.

Objectives:

These study aims at preventing emotional regulation disorders, through analysis of affective and temporal contingencies to establish a dyadic sensitivity scale.

Methods:

The study utilizes analysis and coding of video-recordings with the CARE-Index, Adult Attachment Interview administered to parents and attachment styles’identification. It is also based on parents’intervention and group meetings, during which Circle of Security methodology is utilized. Finally, it includes subsequent administration of the CARE-Index for verification purposes.

Results:

Dyadic sensitivity score improvement and observable changes.

Conclusion:

This therapeutic approach aims at reducing adjustment issues in the 0 to 3 years old population and, at the same time, at modifying atypical developmental and the emergence of potential psychopathology.