Attachment Theory and the Mentoring Relationship Geoff Mac

Attachment Theory and the Mentoring Relationship Geoff Mac. Donald University of Toronto

Normative Attachment System Processes (Mikulincer & Shaver, 2003; Feeney & Collins, 2004) • attachment system is activated by threat • promotes proximity to “stronger and wiser” others • seeking of the actual or internalized attachment figure • attachment figures play two key roles • safe haven: support and comfort to alleviate distress • secure base: support of exploration

Safe Haven Provision • does your mentee feel comfortable coming to you when they have a problem? • “person centered” messages: emotional triage to reduce distress • willingness to engage with their distress and to discuss emotions • validation: “I understand…” • providing cognitive explanations for negative feelings • acceptance and lack of judgment toward their situation

Secure Base Provision • does your mentee feel comfortable exploring new ideas/approaches? • support of exploratory behavior • • • taking an interest in your mentee’s goals encouraging your mentee to accept challenges be prepared to help if asked but do not overhelp removing obstacles accepting their increasing desire for independence praising success

Feeney, B. C. , & Collins, N. L. (2004). Interpersonal Safe Haven and Secure Base Caregiving Processes in Adulthood. In W. S. Rholes & J. A. Simpson (Eds. ), Adult attachment: Theory, research, and clinical implications (pp. 300 -338). New York, NY, US: Guilford Publications. Miller, R. (2019). Intimate Relationships, 8 th Edition. Mc. Graw Hill.