This has been alluded to in previous posts, but I feel it necessary to reiterate the role socioeconomic status may play. I see socioeconomic status of being a crucial confound both in the development of attachment style and well-being later in life.
I see attachment style as a direct result of the parents' attentiveness to the child's needs. This attentiveness can be a result of a number of factors, one of which is financial stability. A more wealthy family may have the opportunity to have one parent stay at home and care for the child, while a more working class family may have to put the child in the care of daycare employees, friends, or family members. The availability of the parent(s), not the amenities they can provide, is at the root of attachment style, so when analyzing possible causes for higher well-being I say look not solely at attachment style, but also at contributing factors to that attachment style. Attachment style is crucial to well-being in that it provides the foundation for development of positive schemas and realistic expectations in relationships.
Pen name: Marieinwood
-- Edited by marieinwood on Tuesday 7th of April 2009 02:15:32 AM
I agree that a lurking variable for why attachment style can lead to how well ones life turns out could be from the financial stability a person has while growing up. In a financially secure household, the parents will generally be less anxious and stressed and can accommodate the needs of the child much more. This in turn will raise a calm, happy child who understands that his desires and self are important. Knowing the importance of self will give him the strength to go out into the world looking for success rather than shying away from experiences and opportunities.
I completely agree with this idea of the importance of socioeconomic status. The availability of parents is a crucial determinant to well-being, and I also believe that the relationship between children and parents later in life can also influence the well-being, not just when the child is young. Other factors such as divorce and remarriage are also extremely important and can influence a child's well-being and attachment styles.
