According to Bowlby, an infant's internal working model of attachment primarily refers to which of the following?

• A. A mental representation of the self, caregiver, and the expectations about relationships based on early attachment experiences
• B. A genetic predisposition to seek out social interaction with peers
• C. A set of reflexes that ensure the infant's survival in the first months of life
• D. A learned fear of strangers that develops during infancy

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that Bowlby's theory of attachment focuses on the emotional bond between an infant and their primary caregiver.
2. Recognize that the 'internal working model' is a cognitive framework that the infant develops based on early interactions with their caregiver.
3. This model includes mental representations of the self (how the infant views themselves), the caregiver (how the infant perceives the caregiver), and expectations about future relationships.
4. Differentiate this concept from other options such as genetic predispositions, reflexes, or learned fears, which are not central to Bowlby's idea of the internal working model.
5. Conclude that the internal working model primarily refers to the mental representation of self, caregiver, and relationship expectations formed through early attachment experiences.