0710 - Evolution of Attachment: History, Core Concepts and Categories

Course Description

This online, self-directed module provides a foundational introduction to attachment theory and its application to psychotherapy practice. Participants will explore how early caregiver-child relationships shape emotional regulation, relationship patterns, personality development and overall well-being across the lifespan.

The course examines the origins and evolution of attachment theory, from its foundational concepts to its contemporary relevance in clinical practice. Participants will learn about attachment categories in childhood, adolescence and adulthood, and explore how attachment experiences influence brain development, emotional regulation and interpersonal functioning. The module also introduces the role of the attachment-focused therapist and highlights practical ways attachment theory can inform assessment, case conceptualization and therapeutic intervention.

Upon completion of this module, participants will be able to:

Define attachment theory and identify its key contributors.
Differentiate between the four primary attachment categories.
Explain how attachment influences emotional regulation, relationships and development across the lifespan.
Recognize common attachment patterns and behaviours in children, adolescents and adults.
Describe the principles and therapeutic conditions that foster secure attachment within the therapeutic relationship.
Apply an attachment-informed lens to clinical assessment and treatment planning.

This online module is a required prerequisite to the following workshops:

Exploring the Connection Between Eating Disorders and Attachment: Creating a Secure Attachment as the Foundation for Recovery
Therapeutic Presence and Attachment Dynamics in Clinical Practice
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
From Protection to Connection: Introduction to Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) with Children, Youth & Families
Who Did I Need to Become?: Understanding Attachment Through an Internal Family Systems Lens
From Survival to Connection: Introduction to Attachment-Based Interventions for Children and Families
Attachment in Adolescence: Theory, Assessment and Clinical Application
Redeveloping Secure Adult Attachments: A Journey of Awareness and Change

Completing the Module

There is no set start date for this module, and you may begin at any time. The course is self-paced, allowing you to progress through the material and complete the module according to your own schedule.

To successfully complete the module, you must achieve a score of 90% of higher on the quiz.

Important: Upon successful completion of this module, please contact us at fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca so we can update our records and confirm your eligibility to register for the workshops listed above.

Notes

For more information contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:

Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-4967
Website: wlu.ca/fswpd