Phillipa's husband,Manuel,is worried about her plan to return to full-time employment when their baby is 6 months old.He is afraid that there will be a negative effect on the baby's attachment to her mother.Phillipa suggests that she and Manuel discuss the pros and cons of day care with a counselor.What would a well-informed counselor advise this couple?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A well-informed counselor would advise the couple that if Phillipa continues to provide sensitive, responsive care when she is with the baby and if the day care is good quality, then the baby should still form a secure attachment to Phillipa. Research shows that secure attachment is dependent on the quality of care, rather than the amount of time spent with the mother. Therefore, it is possible for mothers to return to work without negatively affecting the baby's attachment as long as the care is of good quality. The counselor may also suggest that the couple look into flexible work arrangements or part-time work options as a way to balance work and caregiving responsibilities.

Phillipa's Husband,Manuel,is Worried About Her Plan to Return to Full-Time