Question 1: Define maternal deprivation in the context of attachment theory.

Answer: Maternal deprivation refers to the emotional and psychological consequences that can occur when a child is deprived of a continuous, caring relationship with their mother or primary carer during early childhood.

Question 2: Describe one potential long-term effect of maternal deprivation on a child's development.

Answer: One potential long-term effect is emotional maladjustment, which can manifest as difficulties forming healthy relationships, increased susceptibility to mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, or antisocial behaviour.

Question 3: Explain why Bowlby believed early separation from the mother could be harmful to a child's emotional development.

Answer: Bowlby believed early separation disrupted the formation of a secure attachment, which is crucial for healthy emotional development. This could lead to feelings of insecurity, anxiety, and difficulties in forming trusting relationships later in life.

Question 4: Identify and briefly explain two criticisms of Bowlby's maternal deprivation hypothesis.

Answer: First, some critics argue that not all children who experience maternal deprivation develop psychological problems, suggesting other factors are involved. Second, others claim Bowlby underestimated the capacity for resilience and the importance of other attachment figures beyond the mother.

Question 5: Imagine a scenario where a young child is separated from their mother for an extended period due to hospitalization. What might be some signs of emotional distress the child could display?

Answer: Signs of emotional distress could include crying, clinginess, withdrawal from others, or showing signs of anxiety or depression.

Question 6: Discuss how the concept of 'critical period' relates to maternal deprivation.

Answer: The 'critical period' refers to a specific window in early childhood during which maternal deprivation can cause irreversible damage to attachment and emotional development. If deprivation occurs outside this period, its effects may be less severe or more recoverable.

Question 7: Draw a simple timeline illustrating the critical period for attachment development and the potential impact of maternal deprivation at different stages.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a timeline marked with key stages: early infancy (0-2 years), indicating the critical period for attachment formation, with annotations showing potential effects of deprivation during this time (such as insecure attachment, emotional problems). The timeline may also show stages after the critical period where effects are less severe.

Question 8: Suggest two ways that society or caregivers can reduce the risks associated with maternal deprivation.

Answer: First, promoting consistent and responsive caregiving, such as through parenting support programs, can help ensure children's emotional needs are met. Second, providing access to quality childcare and early intervention services can help mitigate the effects of maternal absence.

Question 9: In your opinion, what is the most important factor in ensuring healthy attachment development in early childhood, and why?

Answer: The most important factor is consistent emotional responsiveness from a caregiver because it helps the child develop a sense of security and trust, which are fundamental for healthy emotional and social development throughout life.