Maternal deprivation theory

The maternal deprivation theory is a biological approach that argues that the mother-infant bonding relationship is one of the most fundamental human relationships. This bond, or lack thereof, has important implications for development and well-being during childhood. The maternal deprivation theory was popularized in 1976 by psychoanalytic psychologist James Prescott.

The theory discusses the foundations of this concept and its impact on children and animal models to test the validity of this theory over time.

Proponents of the maternal deprivation theory

Proponents of the maternal deprivation theory believe that separation between mother and infant has both short-term and long-term implications. It is theorized that maternal deprivation results in detrimental consequences, especially when the infant is separated from its mother before nine months. These adverse effects include attachment disorders, mental retardation, depression, anxiety disorders, psychosomatic illness, disturbed emotional development, and physical growth difficulties.

Maternal deprivation hypothesis

According to the maternal deprivation hypothesis, separating an infant from their mother during the first year of life causes permanent damage to the infant. The theory implies that if an infant is removed from its mother (particularly before the age of nine), it will suffer permanent neurological, mental and physical damage. This alleged damage occurs because when infants are separated from their mothers at such a young age, there is no real opportunity for brain development. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) states that “infants are pre-programmed to become attached to their mothers.” Attachment between the infant and mother is a primary driving force in brain development. There is a significant sensitive period of brain development early in the child’s life. The child will suffer permanent damage if that sensitive period is not met with adequate maternal care.