Becoming Attached is a powerful book that explores the psychology behind the attachment theory, backing up its principles with published studies and factual information.

Robert Karen, a former pediatric psychotherapist in Bellevue Hospital, offers both his experience and the published research of others to create this in-depth, eye-opening exploration into the attachment theory of parenting.

The book opens with heart-rending accounts of studies done over the past 50 years, expounding on the unique connection between a child and its primary caregiver, usually the mother.  Karen recounts real case studies of children who suffer the loss of a caregiver during the formative years, and follows up with these children as they grow up.  The studies of how attachment in these formative years affects us through our entire lives is not only fascinating but a little intimidating for new parents.

Our role as parents takes on a whole new level of responsibility when the attachment theory is taken into account.  A child who loses a primary caretaker will be affected for his or her entire life, so we must do what we can to instill confidence and love in our children from the beginning.

Having read this book when I was pregnant with my first, I can say it still profoundly affects me several years later.  If you are looking for a primer on attachment parenting theory, one that will really get you thinking about your role as a parent, take a long look at Becoming Attached.