Attachment theory is widely used in parent-child work to understand and improve parent-child relationships. Within attachment theory, the Circles of Security model is a specific approach that highlights the critical aspects of the parent-child relationship. Children need to feel secure in their relationships with their parents or primary caregivers to explore the world and develop emotional health confidently. Because so much of their brain development depends on healthy attachment, ignoring the importance of attachment theory in our work with our children can be damaging. Children who grow up with attachment issues often become adults who struggle with self-esteem, relationships, depression, anxiety, and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
There are four components to the Circles of Security model:
- Secure base
- Exploration
- Support
- Co-regulation.
A child needs a secure base. The parent or primary caregiver is a source of safety and security for the child. As the secure base, the parent or primary caregiver is emotionally available, responsive, and comforting, allowing the child to feel safe and secure enough to explore the world around them and seek comfort when needed.
Exploration is an integral part of a child’s developmental experience because it allows them to develop a sense of autonomy and confidence. The child is encouraged to explore the world around them, knowing that the parent or primary caregiver is there to provide comfort when needed.
Parental support and guidance help a child develop a sense of self-efficacy and resilience. They feel confident that they can navigate their environment, emotions, and challenges because they can depend on their parents for support. When these challenges cause difficult emotions for the child, the parent plays an active part in helping them regulate their emotions through co-regulation. The parent is actively involved in helping the child understand, feel, and then manage their feelings.
Co-regulation leads to the development of emotional intelligence and healthy coping skills.
This approach to parent-child work emphasizes the importance of a secure attachment between parents/primary caregivers and children because secure attachment provides a foundation for healthy emotional development. By utilizing the elements of this approach, parents and primary caregivers can strengthen their relationship with their children and promote confidence and the emotional tools children need to develop into healthy adults.
