Attachment from a neuropsychological perspective: implication of executive functions. A theoretical review
Abstract
Attachment is a concept studied from Psychology in a traditional way without, perhaps, associating it with other areas within the Psychology or Education without leaving its own definition. Attachment is considered as that physical and emotional link between the baby and her reference figure (0-3 years), the innate biological predisposition that ensures the survival of the baby, provide proximity, protection and safety on the part of the caregiver, which can help allow exploration of the unknown.
All of it, supposes a base of security that will form the foundations of the healthy development of the child's mind, defined according to affection (Empathy, Sensitivity, Availability, Emotional validation ...) and exploration (Allow exploration, a refuge that can be used in seeking comfort and security, emotional regulation ...). These two structures marry a known neuropsychological construct as Executive Functions, characterized by planning, emotional control, supervision, self-regulation, memory of work... fundamental areas in the development as people and that, in the child and adolescent, have a great impact on their more personal and academic / professional aspect.