Final answer:
Monotropy refers to the theory developed by John Bowlby that the more time a child spends with their primary attachment figure, usually the mother, the more secure and emotionally stable they will be. This lastingly affects the child's emotional and social development.
Step-by-step explanation:
John Bowlby, a British psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, developed the concept of monotropy. This theory posits that an infant forms a primary attachment figure, usually the mother, to whom the child gives priority over all other people. According to Bowlby, the more time spent with this primary attachment figure, the more secure and emotionally stable the child will be. The primary attachment figure provides the necessary security and confidence to the child during his/her development period. The child uses this person as a 'safe base' from which they can explore the world.
Bowlby's theory implies that the strength and quality of this initial, primary attachment is of paramount importance to the child's future emotional and social development. This does not mean that relationships with other caregivers or adults are not significant, but the one with the primary attachment figure is believed to be the most impactful.
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