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Attachment Quote by Jeremy Holmes

“Attachment exerted an invisible but powerful pull on the child, just as heavenly bodies are connected by gravitational forces. But unlike gravity, attachment makes its presence known by a negative inverse square law: the further the attached person is from their secure base, the greater the pull…” quote by Jeremy Holmes
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““Attachment exerted an invisible but powerful pull on the child, just as heavenly bodies are connected by gravitational forces. But unlike gravity, attachment makes its presence known by a negative inverse square law: the further the attached person is from their secure base, the greater the pull of attachment. The 'elastic band' which constitutes the attachment bond is slack and imperceptible in the presence of a secure base. If the secure base becomes unreliable or the limits of exploration are reached, the bond tugs at the heartstrings.””

Jeremy Holmes

About This Quote

Source Book: Attachment Theory and Practice, 2014

Attachment behaves like an invisible force that intensifies when a child feels distant from a reliable caregiver, pulling them emotionally.

In simple terms: Attachment pulls harder when distance grows.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and strengthen secure relationships.

Themes

attachment emotional bonds development psychology relationships

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

psychological educational

When to use this quote

  • parenting
  • therapy
  • education
  • personal growth
  • relationship counseling

Key Concepts

attachment theory secure base inverse square law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does distance affect your emotional needs?
  • What can you do to reinforce a secure base?
A Different Perspective

Attachment can become overwhelming if the secure base is unstable.

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