The Attachment Doll Play Assessment (ADPA) is a valuable tool for practitioners working with children to understand their attachment patterns and the dynamics of their relationships with caregivers. Developed by George and Solomon (1990-2016), this play-based assessment provides insights into children's internal working models of attachment through symbolic play.
The Predictive Validity of ADPA
The ADPA has been shown to have predictive validity in assessing caregiving accessibility and responsiveness through mother-child interactions and maternal representations. In a study involving 69 mothers and their 5–7-year-old children, the ADPA was used to observe mother-child interactions during pre-separation tasks. The findings indicated that child security with the mother was associated with positive dyadic interaction and flexible maternal caregiving representations. In contrast, controlling or disorganized attachments were linked to problematic interactions and dysregulated-helpless maternal caregiving representations.
Clinical Implications for Practitioners
The clinical implications of the ADPA are significant for practitioners working in educational and clinical settings. By understanding the attachment patterns revealed through the ADPA, practitioners can better tailor interventions to support children’s emotional and behavioral regulation. This assessment helps identify children at risk of attachment insecurity, particularly in high-risk environments such as divorce or foster care.
Implementing ADPA in Practice
- Training: Practitioners should undergo training to administer and interpret the ADPA accurately. Understanding the nuances of symbolic play is crucial for effective application.
- Assessment Environment: Conduct assessments in a private setting where children feel comfortable expressing themselves freely through play.
- Interpreting Results: Use the results to inform treatment plans that address specific attachment-related issues. Secure attachments often indicate balanced interactions, while disorganized attachments may require more targeted interventions.
Encouraging Further Research
The field of attachment research benefits greatly from ongoing studies that explore the associations between attachment patterns and caregiving dynamics. Practitioners are encouraged to engage with current research to enhance their understanding of how attachment influences child development.
By staying informed about recent findings, practitioners can refine their approaches and contribute to a deeper understanding of attachment theory in practice.
Conclusion
The Attachment Doll Play Assessment is a powerful tool that provides valuable insights into children's attachment patterns and maternal caregiving representations. For practitioners, understanding these dynamics is essential for supporting children's emotional well-being and fostering secure attachments. By implementing the outcomes of research like that presented in George and Solomon's study, practitioners can improve their skills and enhance the quality of care provided to children.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The Attachment Doll Play Assessment: Predictive Validity with Concurrent Mother-Child Interaction and Maternal Caregiving Representations.
