The Sutton Trust study says children's early attachment² to parents has far-reaching consequences for their ability to speak, learn and think.

 

Parents who are insecure themselves find it harder to provide children with security, it says.

 

And the report calls for more help so parents can develop such crucial bonds.

 

The study focuses on the application of the theory of attachment - a key theory in child development and psychology³.

 

This says the degree to which children are secure and resilient as they grow up depends on their own early experiences with their mothers and fathers and how they have bonded⁴.

 

But the report from the Sutton Trust education charity, entitled Baby Bonds, makes the case that it has an important impact on children's future educational chances as well as their emotional well-being⁵.

 

It is based on an analysis of more than 100 studies on the issue, including home visits and assessments⁶ and observations of children in a range of countries.

 

The trust argues that although psychologists have been aware of attachment theory, it has not been seen by policy makers⁷ as a key influence on educational attainment⁸. And it asks them to take this into account.

 

The report says when babies and toddlers do not form these strong parental⁹ bonds - known as secure attachment - they are more likely to exhibit poor language and poor behaviour before they reach school.

 

And it cites international studies which suggest this continues late into life, with insecure children more likely to leave school early or duck out of employment or training.

 

They are also more likely to suffer from aggression¹⁰, defiance¹¹ and hyperactivity later in life.

点击收听单词发音