It is true that correlation does not imply causation. There are many factors that influence the well-being of a child, not just developmental attachment. For example, the financial security of a child's family has an effect on both attachment and later well-being. In low income families, both parents are usually working, or there is only one parent and he/she works during the day. Long hours leave insufficient time for parental attachment. At the same time, children from low-income families may not receive a proper education because of lack of financial support or parental guidance, negatively affecting their future well-being. Thus, the financial situation of a child affects both variables in the same way without implying causation between them.
This seems like a reasonable hypothesis. Consider also the broader range of experiences a wealthier family can afford to expose their child to, which could also prepare them for later life and cause greater well being.
-- Edited by bob on Wednesday 9th of November 2011 08:06:15 AM
