Shrinkle #23 · Relationships · 4 letters
Attachment bond
The lasting emotional tie a child forms with the people who care for them, especially when the child is frightened, tired or unwell. The quality of this bond shapes how safe relationships feel later in life.
In the room
A toddler who runs back to a parent after a loud noise, then heads off to play again once comforted, is showing the bond in action.
Something a client might say
“When Mum held me after nightmares, I knew someone would always come for me.”
An illustrative line, not a real client.
Online vs in the room
Online, a 'trauma bond' or 'bond' often means any intense relationship that is hard to leave. In therapy, an attachment bond is the lasting tie formed with caregivers that shapes how safe closeness feels later.
Where it comes from
Associated with John Bowlby's attachment theory.
Related ideas
Secure attachment · Imprinting · Dyad
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