Managing Behaviour with Attachment in Mind

Ben Holmes and Miriam Silver report on a group intervention that combined aspects of established parenting groups with attachment theory, developed to help adoptive parents and foster carers understand and manage their child's behaviour. Participants were provided with an understanding of the principles of attachment theory, how this related to their child's development and behaviour, and how they could improve the relationship with their child through greater empathy and the provision of a safe, structured home environment. Analysis of pre- and post-questionnaire measures indicated significant improvements in the parent–child relationship. Additionally, parent/carer observations indicated a reduction in the perceived severity and impact of the problems or concerns about their child's behaviour.