The Effects of Separation on Attachment

We speak again with Dr. Peter Barach, who teaches us all about attachment.  He tells the story of being in class with Mary Ainsworth, and explains Bowlby’s theory (links in the blog).  He explains the different attachment styles, and what that looks like in adults.  He shares that disorganized attachment is quite common in DID.  He gives the example of the Robertson research film “A Two Year Old Goes to the Hospital”.  He then applies all of this to the context of trauma and multiplicity for some discussion - including suggesting that different alters have different attachment styles.  There is a trigger warning for when discuss therapy boundaries, and how unresolved attachment issues play a role in unethical behavior of otherwise good therapists (and bad ones) - an example of a therapist diapering her adult clients is given.  We also discuss ways to remain connected with your therapist between sessions, in good and safe ways that are healthy and contribute to healing attachment.  Then we apply it internally, too, and explain why improving internal communication changes things so much - and how that heals attachment, too.  He then ties this full circle to Dr. Daniel P. Brown’s theory of CPTSD, and how it’s caused by disorganized attachment followed by abuse later.  He also references “Ghosts in the Nursery”.  We apply what we learned our struggle through the last week, weather trauma, and efforts not to re-enact trauma. 

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Content Note: Content on this website and in the podcasts is assumed to be trauma and/or dissociative related due to the nature of what is being shared here in general.  Content descriptors are generally given in each episode.  Specific trigger warnings are not given due to research reporting this makes triggers worse.  Please use appropriate self-care and your own safety plan while exploring this website and during your listening experience.  Natural pauses due to dissociation have not been edited out of the podcast, and have been left for authenticity.  While some professional material may be referenced for educational purposes, Emma and her system are not your therapist nor offering professional advice.  Any informational material shared or referenced is simply part of our own learning process, and not guaranteed to be the latest research or best method for you.  Please contact your therapist or nearest emergency room in case of any emergency.  This website does not provide any medical, mental health, or social support services.