Basic Mistrust: A Review of Its Development, Impact, and Implications
Abstract
Basic mistrust is an interpersonal phenomenon that has been extensively studied in developmental psychology. It is defined as an early aspect of a child’s relationship with others that generates a lack of trust, a fear of betrayal, and an expectation of negative outcomes in interactions with others. This review provides an overview of the development of this phenomenon, including its relation to attachment, the role of the primary caregiver, and other influences. It then examines the potential impact of basic mistrust on later psychological and socioemotional functioning. Finally, implications for future research on basic mistrust are discussed.
Keywords: basic mistrust, attachment, primary caregiver, psychological development
Introduction
The concept of basic mistrust has been studied for decades in developmental psychology. It is generally defined as an early aspect of a child’s relationship with others that generates a lack of trust, a fear of betrayal, and an expectation of negative outcomes in interactions with others (Main, 1981). As such, basic mistrust can significantly influence the development of an individual’s psychological functioning. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the development of basic mistrust, its impact on later functioning, and implications for future research.
Development of Basic Mistrust
The development of basic mistrust is thought to be influenced by a variety of factors, including attachment, the role of the primary caregiver, and other influences. Attachment is a distinct form of emotional bond between an infant and a primary caregiver (Ainsworth & Bowlby, 1991). It is thought to play an important role in the development of basic mistrust, as it is through attachment that the baby learns to trust the caregiver and to expect positive outcomes from interactions with others.
The role of the primary caregiver is also thought to be important in the development of basic mistrust. Specifically, the quality of care provided by the caregiver has been linked to the development of basic mistrust. Caregivers who are sensitive, responsive, and supportive of the child’s needs are thought to foster a sense of trust in the child, whereas caregivers who are unresponsive, unreliable, or neglectful may contribute to a lack of trust in the child (Main & Cassidy, 1988).
Other influences on the development of basic mistrust include the child’s temperament, their physical environment, the quality of their peer relationships, and their cultural and social context (Rutter, 1990). For example, children with a more difficult temperament may be more prone to developing basic mistrust, as they may be more sensitive and reactive to environmental influences. Similarly, children who grow up in chaotic or unstable environments may also be more likely to develop basic mistrust.
Impact of Basic Mistrust
The impact of basic mistrust is far-reaching and can be seen in a variety of psychological and socioemotional domains. For example, individuals with basic mistrust may be more susceptible to developing anxiety and depression (Main & Cassidy, 1988). They may also be more likely to engage in aggressive behavior, as they may view negative interactions with others as inevitable (Rutter, 1990). Further, basic mistrust can lead to difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, as individuals may be less likely to trust and rely on others (Ainsworth & Bowlby, 1991).
Implications for Future Research
Given the potential impact of basic mistrust on psychological and socioemotional functioning, it is important to further study this phenomenon. Future research should focus on identifying risk and protective factors associated with basic mistrust, as well as the long-term effects of this phenomenon. Additionally, research should explore the potential mechanisms by which basic mistrust influences later functioning, such as its effects on cognitive and emotional functioning. Finally, research should focus on interventions that may be effective in reducing the development and impact of basic mistrust.
Conclusion
In conclusion, basic mistrust is an important phenomenon that has been extensively studied in developmental psychology. It is thought to be influenced by a variety of factors, including attachment, the role of the primary caregiver, and other influences. It can have a significant impact on later psychological and socioemotional functioning, and further research is needed to understand its development and effects.
References
Ainsworth, M. D. S., & Bowlby, J. (1991). An ethological approach to personality development. American Psychologist, 46(4), 333-341.
Main, M. (1981). Attachment and the resolution of grief. In J. Osofsky (Ed.), Handbook of infant development (pp. 803-837). New York, NY: Wiley.
Main, M., & Cassidy, J. (1988). Categories of response to reunion with the parent at age 6: predictors of behavior change at age 7. Developmental Psychology, 24(3), 415-426.
Rutter, M. (1990). Psychosocial resilience and protective mechanisms. American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 60(3), 416-431.