DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY

Answer 1)
Lawrence Kohlberg's moral development theory outlines stages of moral
reasoning that individuals go through as they grow. The theory consists of three
main levels, each with two sub-stages:

1. Pre-Conventional Level:
Stage 1: Punishment and Obedience Orientation: Morality is based on
avoiding punishment. Individuals focus on their own needs and may break rules
if they can avoid consequences.
For example- Refrained from cheating on a test because of fear of getting
caught and facing disciplinary action. It was also to avoid punishment rather
than recognizing the value of academic honesty.
Stage 2: Instrumental Relativist Orientation: Morality is determined by self-
interest. Individuals recognize different perspectives and learn that there is more
than one right view. For example- Collaboration on group projects in school
was majorly done so that collective effort can lead to personal success or higher
grades and there was less sense of duty

2. Conventional Level:
Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships: Morality is defined by social
expectations and the approval of others. Individuals seek to maintain good
relationships and often conform to societal norms. For example- As siblings, we
collaborated not just out of personal interest but because we valued a
harmonious family environment. We also wanted to contribute to a positive
atmosphere where everyone felt supported and cared for.
Stage 4: Maintaining the Social Order: Morality is based on societal rules and
laws. Individuals uphold laws to maintain social order, valuing authority and
duty. For example- We are always expected to greet elders and touch their feet
as a way of following societal rules and valuing authority.

3. Post-Conventional Level:
Stage 5: Social Contract and Individual Rights: Morality involves an
understanding of social contracts. Individuals recognize the importance of
individual rights and may question laws that seem unfair. For example-
For example- Being friends with individuals with diverse backgrounds, I
support policies and initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and equal
rights for all members of the community. I recognize and practice the
importance of respecting individuals from diverse backgrounds. I refrain from
differentiating between people from varied ethnic communities. Also, making
sure that people around me are not practicing such things.
Stage 6: Universal Principles: Morality is guided by universal ethical
principles. Individuals act based on their internalized principles of justice,
equality, and human rights, even if it means breaking laws.

For example- I think I haven’t reached that stage yet ☹

Answer 2)
John Bowlby's attachment theory is a psychological framework that explores the
importance of early emotional bonds between infants and their primary
caregivers. Attachment refers to the emotional bond that forms between an
infant and their primary caregiver. Bowlby believed that this attachment is a
fundamental aspect of human development and serves as a foundation for future
social and emotional relationships. The primary function of attachment
behaviours, such as crying, clinging, and seeking proximity to the caregiver, is
to elicit caregiving responses.
The main attachment styles include secure attachment, insecure-avoidant
attachment, and insecure-anxious/ambivalent attachment. These styles influence
the child's later social and emotional development.
In the movie "Dear Zindagi," Kaira exhibits various attachment styles in her
relationships. It is as follows:

1. Avoidant Attachment with Parents:

Individuals with an avoidant attachment style with parents typically display
specific behaviours and patterns in their relationships. This attachment style
often develops in response to caregivers who are consistently unresponsive or
emotionally distant. Kaira's strained relationship with her parents contributes to
an avoidant attachment style. Her perception of parental expectations and the
pressure to conform lead to emotional distress. As seen in the movie, she had
difficulty trusting others, as she may have learned early in life that relying on
caregivers for emotional support is unreliable. Being Emotionally detached is a
hallmark of avoidant attachment. Kaira seemed to be distant or emotionally
detached in relationships, creating a protective barrier to avoid potential
emotional pain.

2. Anxious Attachment with Boyfriend:

Individuals with an anxious attachment style in romantic relationships often
exhibit specific behaviours and thought patterns that stem from a fear of
rejection or abandonment. This attachment style is typically developed based on
early caregiving experiences that were inconsistent or unpredictable. Anxiously
attached individuals may experience heightened levels of anxiety, insecurity,
and emotional distress, especially during periods of perceived distance or
uncertainty in the relationship. Trusting the stability of the relationship can be
challenging for those with an anxious attachment style. They may have an
ongoing struggle with feelings of insecurity and may question their partner's
intentions.
Kaira's romantic relationship portrays elements of anxious attachment. She
struggled with commitment and vulnerability, creating emotional distance as a
defense mechanism to avoid potential hurt. She had a deep-seated fear of
abandonment. They may be overly sensitive to signs of potential separation,
even in the absence of concrete evidence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study of attachment styles provides profound insights into the
intricacies of human relationships and emotional bonds. From the pioneering
work of John Bowlby to the expanded frameworks of Mary Ainsworth and
subsequent researchers, attachment theory has become a cornerstone in
understanding how early experiences shape our patterns of connection
throughout life.
It's crucial to recognize that attachment styles are not fixed or deterministic;
they can evolve and be influenced by later experiences and personal growth.
Understanding one's attachment style can serve as a compass for self-reflection
and guide efforts toward building more secure and fulfilling relationships.
Therapeutic interventions, communication skills, and fostering emotional
intelligence are valuable tools for individuals seeking to navigate and improve
their attachment dynamics.