This volume shows how attachment theory, which initially focused on child development, is now being used to elucidate social functioning across the lifespan.

From pioneering attachment researchers, this book takes an expansive look at the nature and functions of security dynamics in personal and social relationships. Mario Mikulincer and Phillip R. Shaver examine how attachment operates not only in close dyadic relationships (parent–child, romantic partners), but also between teachers and students, therapists and clients, physicians and patients, leaders and followers, and within organizations. Also considered is the nature of "attachments" to objects; commercial brands; substances, such as foods and drugs; and places. The book highlights ways to integrate attachment theory with other influential social and psychological theories concerning factors that enable individuals, groups, and societies to flourish despite inevitable threats, conflicts, and losses. See also the related work from Mikulincer and Shaver, Attachment Theory Applied: Fostering Personal Growth through Healthy Relationships.

Widely regarded as the state-of-the-science reference on attachment, this handbook interweaves theory and cutting-edge research with clinical applications. Leading researchers examine the origins and development of attachment theory; present biological and evolutionary perspectives; and explore the role of attachment processes in relationships, including both parent–child and romantic bonds. Implications for mental health and psychotherapy are addressed, with reviews of exemplary attachment-oriented interventions for children and adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Contributors discuss best practices in assessment and critically evaluate available instruments and protocols. New to This Edition *Chapters on genetics and epigenetics, psychoneuroimmunology, and sexual mating. *Chapters on compassion, school readiness, and the caregiving system across the lifespan. *Chapter probing the relation between attachment and other developmental influences. *Nearly a decade's worth of theoretical and empirical advances.

In this compelling book, prominent investigators Mario Mikulincer and Phillip R. Shaver review the state of the science of attachment-based interventions in psychotherapy and beyond. They critically evaluate a range of programs that aim to strengthen parent–child, couple, and therapist–client relationships. The theoretical and empirical underpinnings of each intervention are examined, as are specific techniques used to enhance felt security and foster personal growth. The book also looks at evidence-based interventions outside the mental health domain, including programs that target teacher–student relationships and academic performance. Looking to the future, the authors discuss emerging applications of attachment theory in medicine and health care, management and organizational behavior, and group and intergroup processes. See also the related work from Mikulincer and Shaver, Attachment Theory Expanded: Security Dynamics in Individuals, Dyads, Groups, and Societies.

The concluding chapter reflects on the key issues addressed, considers the deeper philosophical implications of current work in the field, and identifies pivotal directions for future investigation."--BOOK JACKET.

This volume gives a brief outline of the contents of the 11 chapters: Chapter 1, lays out in brief detail the contents of each chapter and concludes with a review of some important research areas -- Chapter 2, John Robinson reviews survey evidence on the correlates of life satisfaction and happiness in general public -- Chapter 3, Rick Crandall surveys a large number of measures related to self-esteem and the self-concept -- Chapter 5, fourteen measures relating to the often abused term "alienation" are reviewed -- Chapter 6, is about the vast literature on authoritarian and dogmatic personality characteristics -- Chapter 7, is about the reviewing of seven promising instruments that deal with political content -- Chapter 8, is devoted to measures of values, to which many psychologists refer as something like "meta-attitudes" i.e., constructs that are more general and pervasive than attitudes -- Chapter 9, may be seen as tapping one basic value, that of favorableness toward people in general -- Chapter 10, is about religious values and the topics are reviewed by Shaver -- Chapter 11, is about the examination of four sets of scales that are mainly of methodological interest -- primarily for the measurement of social desirability response set.