Fathers’ role as attachment figures: an interview with Sir Richard Bowlby

Abstract

Sir Richard Bowlby, son of John Bowlby, has carried on his father’s work by lecturing and writing on the topic of attachment theory. He has initiated and maintained international connections with researchers, practitioners and agencies in the field of child development, and has produced training videos to more widely disseminate information about attachment theory to professionals working with children and families. In this interview, conducted in London in February of 2009, Richard responded to questions regarding the father’s role as an attachment figure, highlighting new theoretical directions and current research. He also addressed cultural influences on fathering and attachment, and offered suggestions for researchers and practitioners.

Keywords:

• child attachment security
• fathering
• context
• culture
• childcare