Attachment theory in psychiatric rehabilitation: informing clinical practice

This article highlights the relevance of attachment theory for psychiatric rehabilitation services and discusses practice implications derived from the theory. Attachment theory can guide the development of interpersonal relationships during recovery and this aspect of rehabilitation is emphasised here. Attachment theory can also be used to help staff predict and understand problematic behaviours such as violence and aggression, and different styles of recovery. The theory can help promote positive staff–service-user relationships by highlighting the qualities of effective caregivers and the way in which people with different attachment styles might benefit from different approaches. We conclude by suggesting ways of teaching rehabilitation staff to become more effective attachment figures.