Although causative cultural phenomena can be identified, failure in our society is experienced one person at a time and one life at a time. Three components of attachment theory are physical, emotional and social dimensions. Physical factors influencing attachment involve aspects of human physiology including hormones and the central nervous system. The importance of physical touch and other senses have already been mentioned. The role of emotions in the attachment process appears to be to assist in appraisal of the infant's internal organismic states and of the external environment.
Social reciprocity is the purpose of attachment.
Only if the child can accurately assess the affective state of another person can they productively participate in a social interchange. Instinct A major influence upon attachment is instinct. The first instincts of primary importance are the instincts to survive, to be social and to be adaptable to the environment. Deviations in evolutionary adaptedness, as Bowlby describes instinctive behaviors that don't achieve the desired results, can produce maladaptive behavior patterns. When this occurs, a negative cycle develops with the child slipping further and further away from the instinctive goal of connection.