[Ygrec23]

Would any of you folks have information about the later life consequences of bad attachment in very early life? I've read about five or six books about attachment theory and the strange situation test. I've reviewed what they have for sale under devpsych at Amazon (way too expensive for me!). I'm sure you understand what I'm looking for; trying to relate current difficulties to unfortunate mothering. I know my mother was a nut. Particularly about babies. But she had four of them and they all grew up quite twisted. Can't be genetic, it wouldn't show up that regularly. Has to be environmental. Dad was fine. Why he stuck with Mom is another question. Anyway, anything you can share with me would be most appreciated.

Thanks.

M. Scott Peck, M.D., in The Road Less Traveled, says:

The feeling of be valuable -- "I am a valuable person"--is essential to mental health and is a cornerstone of self-discipline. It is a direct product of parental love. Such a conviction must be gained in childhood; it it extremely difficult to acquire it during adulthood. Conversely, when children have learned through the love of their parents to feel valuable, it is almost impossible for the vicissitudes of adulthood to destroy their spirit.

Dr. Peck does not refer to attachment but appears to be talking about it nonetheless.