Maccoby defines attachment as `a relatively enduring emotional tie to a specific other person.' Human infants seem to have an innate sense of willingness to form attachment relationships almost instantly. This bonding is naturally a two way process.

One of the most influential psychologists in the field of attachments is John Bowlby. Bowlby performed his elementary psychological studies in the late 1960's, which undoubtedly caused a stir amongst close families and the setting of the times. He believed strongly in the idea of monotropy. This is the sense that all infants need one special attachment relationship, and this gives the child the ability to experience deep feelings. Bowlby claimed that a `warm, intimate, continuous relationship with the mother or mother substitute is essential.' Now, one has to appreciate the times and context that Bowlby is referring to. There has been a lot of research into the...