Narrow view of attachment or broad view of protection? Rejoinder to the commentaries

The authors address 3 general issues raised by the commentaries on S. Goldb erg, J. E. Grusec, and J. M. Jenbins, 1999 (J. Braungart-Rieker & J. Harass , 1999; S. Dickstein, 1999; R. Isabella, 1999; K. MacDonald, 1999; D. R. Pe derson & G. Moran, 1999). (a) In response to questions regarding the nature of protection, they outline a definition consistent with J. Bowlby's (1969 ) that extends beyond predation and survival to include protection in times of illness, injury, and emotional distress; (b) they argue that protective needs extend well beyond infancy into adulthood and are relevant to a life span perspective on attachment; and (c) the challenges of differentiating a spects of relationships are discussed, and the significance of a narrow def inition of attachment in such efforts is emphasised.