Theories of Childhood, Second Edition (Carol Garhart Mooney) / quote 35 of 70
Attachment matters even when it ends
Like the old adage “It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all,” Erikson’s theory confirms that strong relationships with a few significant adults in the first year of life are important, even if the babies have to separate later from the people to whom they are attached. The fact that separation from those special adults causes distress for babies and demands the comfort of others is not a good reason, according to Erikson, to try to prevent this attachment. Attachment is essential, even if it is not permanent, and the process of mourning for a special adult and being comforted by other reliable adults is another indication to babies that their needs will be met.