Developmentalists of diverse theoretical orientations agree that the formation of a strong emotional connection to a primary caregiver early in life is critical to healthy child development and has important implications across the entire lifespan. Stemming from the work of scientists in ethology, developmental psychology, and psychoanalysis, Ainsworth's groundbreaking study (1978) about infant attachment has greatly aided in our understanding of children's attachment patterns and the role of parent-child 'synchrony'. Synchrony isthe mutual, interlocking pattern of behaviors between parent and child that results in a smooth interaction.This involves the baby signaling her or his needs and the parent's response.It seems to be an unlearned behavior that crosses cultural barriers.Real synchrony develops after much practice of each partner responding to the other, and it appears to be far more important than the initial contact at birth in establishing a strong parental bond to the child.

For this week, I would like you to discuss Ainsworth's research on attachment and how those early interactions with a parent forge basis of our early social relationships onward. Additionally, I would like you to consider the development of theory of mind (ToM) in ones' social interactions in early childhood.

Primary: Briefly provide information regarding the development of attachment in infancy. In your answer, also summarize and explain the various patterns of attachment and parental factors/interactions that contribute to those patterns. Include in-text citation and reference APA

Secondary: Briefly give explanations as to why "theory of mind" contributes to the changes in children's play and social skills during preschool. Include in-text citation and reference APA