Abstract

GALAN RODRIGUEZ, Antonio. Attachment theory: misunderstandings, conceptual delimitations and challenges. Rev. Asoc. Esp. Neuropsiq. [online]. 2016, vol.36, n.129, pp.45-61. ISSN 2340-2733.

Attachment theory provides an enriching view of the human being, but its explanatory potential is limited by a number of factors. In addition to the lack of knowledge about it or accuracy when using it, we also find some conceptual issues that deserve further clarification and whose overcoming should include: a) inserting attachment inside a complex and dynamic net of personal motivations that lead human beings towards personal relationships; b) establishing the kind of safety which is sought in attachment relationships (because of either physical dangers or threatening emotional experiences); c) tracing the differences between attachment and the need to share emotions and psychological states (intersubjectivity); and d) admitting attachment as an heterogeneous concept that can be represented as a multi-level motivation system aimed at fulfilling different needs.

Keywords : attachment; intersubjectivity; mentalization; motivation.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )