attachment theory

a theory that (a) postulates an evolutionarily advantageous need, especially in primates, to form close emotional bonds with significant others: specifically, a need for the young to maintain close proximity to and form bonds with their caregivers; and (b) characterizes the different types of relationships between human infants and caregivers. These relationships have been shown to affect the individual’s later emotional development and emotional stability. See also insecure attachment; secure attachment; Strange Situation. [originally developed by John Bowlby and later expanded by Mary D. Salter Ainsworth]

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Psychology term of the day

December 23rd 2024

quasi– F ratio

in analysis of variance and regression analysis, a substitute for the F ratiof-ratio that can sometimes be obtained when the denominators for an exact F ratio cannot be completed. The quasi–F ratio is obtained by determining the mean squared error using certain estimated components of variation when these cannot be calculated directly.