11th Attachment Conference Attachment and Adolescence – Individuality, Group, and Autonomy" (2012)
Secure attachment in early childhood is especially impor tant in adolescence because adolescents are heavily engaged in becoming autonomous and separating from their attachment figures. This process may cause much anxiety and activate their need for attachment. Some adolescents are unable to separate at all; others attempt to force separation.
During this stage of development, attachment t0peer groups may become an impor- tant attachment system that gives adolescents a sense of protection and security, which can help them make the transition to adulthood. However,pathological group attachment may also become a source of fear and anxiety that hinders autonomy and individuality. Adolescents who have experienced trauma and disorganized attachment in childhood are especially sus- ceptible to psychological problems such as depression, suici- dality, panic, violence, drugs, sexual difficulties, eating disorders, and borderline symptoms. The papers presented at this conf- erence will illustrate, based on studies and clinical and educa- tional work, how the development of psychopathology in adoles- cents may be understood and treated, and will indicate potential preventive measures.
Target group
The conference is aimed at pediatricians, child psychiatrists, child and adolescent psychotherapists, child psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, educators, youth social workers, and all therapists and counselors engaged in the diagnosis and treat- ment of psychosocial and emotional disorders in adolescents. In addition, we invite all professionals who engage with adolescents such as teachers, nurses, remedial teachers, ergotherapists, physical therapists, clergy, jurists, politicians, and parents.
Conference folder 2012: download