Attachment theory is a psychological theory developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth in the 1950s and 1960s. It proposes that infants and young children develop emotional bonds with primary caregivers, such as parents or guardians, and that these bonds have a significant impact on their social and emotional development. According to attachment theory, infants are biologically programmed to seek closeness and proximity to their caregivers for safety and protection. Through interactions with their caregivers, infants learn to form mental representations of the relationship, called an “internal working model,” which guides their behaviour and interactions in future relationships.
As it applies to education, attachment theory can help us understand why some children struggle in school, especially those who have experienced disruptions in their early attachments, such as students who have been in foster care or who have a history of trauma. Teachers and other educators can use an understanding of attachment theory to create a secure and nurturing classroom, which helps students develop positive relationships with their peers and adults and promotes emotional well-being. The quality of the relationships that students have with their teachers and peers plays a crucial role in their motivation and engagement in the classroom.
Strategies to engage high school students
Here are a few strategies that help engage high school students, drawing on what attachment theory tells us.
Build positive relationships
Establishing positive relationships with students is crucial for creating a sense of safety and security in the classroom. This can be done by showing genuine interest in students’ lives, providing emotional support, and being responsive to their needs.
Create a sense of belonging
High school students need to feel like they are part of a community in order to stay engaged in learning. Encourage students to form connections with their peers, and build a sense of belonging in the classroom.
Provide emotional support
High school students often face a variety of emotional challenges, so it is important that educators provide emotional support and create a safe and inclusive learning environment.
By incorporating attachment theory, educators can create an environment in which students feel safe and supported, and therefore more motivated and engaged in the learning process. It is worth remembering that all students have different needs and attachment styles, so it helps to stay adaptable and responsive to each student.
At AVRO Academy, secure relationships are the foundation of the school day, not an afterthought. That is how our small classes in midtown Toronto help students who learn differently rebuild confidence and stay engaged.