How do caregiver attachment styles influence outcomes when their children experience adverse childhood events?

This major paper will explore attachment styles, adverse childhood events and life outcomes and answer the question: “How do caregiver attachment styles influence outcomes when children experience adverse childhood events?” Adverse childhood events are common, and the implications that different attachment styles have on outcomes are important for the profession of social work. Based on attachment theory, this paper explores the impact attachment has on a child who has faced one or more forms of adversity. Using a thematic review of the literature, including quantitative and qualitative studies, themes that emerged during the research included: insecure attachment and negative life outcomes, intergenerational attachment styles, and therapeutic interventions to strengthen attachment bonds. Implications for social work practice, policy, and further research are discussed.