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Hattie conducted cross-cultural research into attachment types - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 14 - 2018 - Paper 2
Question 14
Hattie conducted cross-cultural research into attachment types. She gathered data from two different cultures, one culture was in Europe and one culture was in Asia,... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Hattie conducted cross-cultural research into attachment types - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 14 - 2018 - Paper 2
Step 1
AO1: Research Findings on Secure Attachment
Answer
Hattie’s conclusion can be supported by attachment research findings. Ainsworth’s (1978) Baltimore study indicated that 65% of children were securely attached. Similarly, Grossmann found that in Germany, 33% of children were securely attached while 49% were insecurely attached. In contrast, Takahashi (1986) reported that Japanese children show different attachment patterns, with higher levels of insecure-resistant attachment compared to Ainsworth’s findings. These studies illustrate variations in attachment based on cultural background.
Step 2
AO2: Cultural Differences in Attachment Types
Answer
Hattie would likely find that attachment types differ significantly between the cultures she studied, which contributed to her conclusion regarding nurture. For example, if Hattie’s participants were Japanese, it is possible that maternal behaviors influenced attachment styles. Takahashi’s findings suggest that Japanese infants may form secure attachments differently due to cultural practices like co-sleeping. Hattie could argue that attachment styles depend more on cultural contextual factors than solely on innate factors.
Step 3
AO3: Nature vs Nurture Debate
Answer
The nature versus nurture debate reveals complexities in attachment styles across different cultures. Izjendoorn and Kroonenberg (1988) demonstrated that the most prevalent attachment type in varied cultures is secure attachment. While environmental factors undeniably shape attachment, inherent biological predispositions may also play a role. Hattie's conclusion may therefore overlook the interactive influence of both nature and nurture in forming attachment styles in diverse populations.