Attachment Patterns: A Deep Dive with Dr. Carol George

In this "Flip Your Lid with Kim Honeycutt" episode, join us as Kim interviews Dr. Carol George, a pioneer and expert in attachment theory, as she unravels the depths of attachment patterns and the interplay of trauma. They explore each attachment pattern: secure, ambivalent, and avoidant alongside lesser-known dismissive failed blocked mourning and preoccupied with suffering. Gain insights into adult manifestations and the interplay of biology, trauma, and defense mechanisms. They also discuss The Adult Attachment Projective Picture System © (AAP) as the best assessment for determining your attachment pattern.

• Attachment patterns, including secure, ambivalent, avoidant, and lesser-known patterns, such as dismissive failed blocked mourning and preoccupied with suffering.
• Adult manifestations of attachment patterns and how they shape relationships and behaviors.
• The interplay of biology, trauma, and defense mechanisms in the context of attachment.
• Understanding and recognizing one's attachment pattern for personal growth and relationship dynamics is important.
• Introduction and discussion of The Adult Attachment Projective Picture System © (AAP) as a comprehensive assessment tool for determining one's attachment pattern.
• How the AAP can provide valuable insights into the complexities of attachment and contribute to self-awareness.

About Dr. Carol George:

Carol George, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita of Psychology at Mills College in Oakland, California, and has been a pioneer in developing attachment assessments for children and adults. George is an internationally renowned attachment expert who was a co-director of the Mills College Infant Mental Health program for 21 years. Working alongside Dr. Main and Dr. Kaplan, her dissertation helped develop the Adult Attachment Interview. She is praised for her work as an author and editor, and is known for her contributions to attachment-based representative assessments like the Caregiving Interview, the Attachment Doll Play Projective Assessment, and “Disorganized Attachment and Caregiving,” alongside Judith Soloman. Her other contributions include “The Adult Attachment Projective Picture System” with Malcolm West. Although retired from being a professor, George is still incredibly active and stays busy being an assistant editor on the editorial board of Attachment and Human Development, as well as the Director of the AAP Training Consortium. Her dedication to education is still prevalent as she often hosts extensive clinical consultations with practicing therapists, graduate students, and other students of attachment.

Contact Information & Resources:

AAPInfo@Comcast.net – Contact information if you're interested in AAP

Adult Attachment Publications – List of credible publications and learning materials

Attachment Projective – Official website with training opportunities and resources