A Critical Analysis of the use of Attachment Theory in Cases of Domestic Violence

Abstract

Social policies and social work practices are increasingly influenced by attachment theory. Women who have been subjected to domestic violence by male partners are being assessed within this discourse, which takes little account of societal perspectives, which sustain injustices and power differentials. Domestic violence is known to be a major social problem but when attachment theory is applied to women and their babies in domestic violence it negates knowledge based in lived experiences. Rather attachment theory is informed by non-gendered family violence perspectives and research instruments, which frame domestic violence within an individualised perspective. In this way, women and their babies are observed and classified without regard for the societal factors, which affect them. In view of this, there is a need for critical social workers to question attachment theory and the positivist research instruments, which are being used to inform theory and practice. Particularly with regard to domestic violence as a gendered, societal issue, a broad perspective, which promotes a social justice view and the need for social change is indispensable.