Separation anxiety,attachment and agoraphobia

Within a framework of attachment, developed by John Bowlby, the anxiety disorder of agoraphobia (fear of leaving familiar surroundings, especially when alone) is conceived as a condition of anxious attachment, related to fear of separation from those with whom one has formed affectional bonds. Bowlby attributes this anxiety to earlier separation or loss experiences or threat of separation. Uncertain about his/her attachment figures, the person is prone to separation anxiety and clinging behavior and lacks confidence for exploring the world and dealing with stressful situations. Psychotherapy offers a temporary attachment relationship, a secure base from which to explore and understand the effects of these experiences in order to develop more self reliance in relationships with others.