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Pastoral Psychol (2013) 62:827841
DOI 10.1007/s11089-012-0500-x
Joshua J. Knabb & Matthew Y. Emerson
Published online: 9 November 2012# Springer Science+Business Media New York 2012
Abstract In this article, we apply attachment theory to the grand narrative of Christian Scripture: creation, fall, redemption, and new creation. First, utilizing four key features of attachment theorysecure base, exploration, attachment behaviors, and safe havenwe attempt to integrate the circle of attachment with the biblical story of creation. Next, we explore the overlap between maternal deprivation, including the stages of protest, despair, and detachment, and the fall of humankind elucidated in the biblical storyline. Finally, we discuss the relationship between attachment theory and redemption and new creation within the grand narrative of Scripture. By focusing on the relationship between God and humankind found within the Old and New Testaments, we seek to expand the theological underpinnings of the attachment to God literature and conclude by offering suggestions for therapists and pastoral counselors working with Christians exhibiting disordered attachment patterns.
Keywords Attachment theory . John Bowlby . God . Grand narrative of Scripture
Introduction
In the last several decades, attachment theory has had a significant impact on developmental psychology. Beginning in the 1940s, John Bowlbys empirical studies with children revealed that early maternal deprivation has a profound effect on psychological development (Bretherton 1985). In particular, Bowlby, working with James Robertson, observed that prolonged separation of children from their parents results in clearly defined attachment behaviors, including protest, despair, and detachment (Karen 1994). Upon collaborating with Mary Ainsworth, Bowlby further developed his theory of attachment, utilizing concepts from control systems theory, ethology, security theory, and additional empirical studies to formulate a comprehensive, universal theory of psychological development that underscores the necessity of relational bonds throughout the lifespan (Bretherton 1985; Holmes 1993).
J. J. Knabb (*) : M. Y. Emerson
Online and Professional Studies Division, California Baptist University, 10370 Hemet Street, Suite 200, Riverside, CA 92503, USAe-mail: [email protected]
I Will Be Your God and You Will Be My People: Attachment Theory and the Grand Narrative of Scripture
828 Pastoral Psychol (2013) 62:827841
Contemporary attachment theory typically emphasizes at least four central tenets1 that are embedded within the attachment behavior system, defined as a collection of behaviors that serve to keep the infant close...