Conference in Vienna: Attachment theory meets neurobiology!

Conference in Vienna: Attachment theory meets neurobiology!

On Friday, March 28, 2025, the transdisciplinary conference entitled “Relationship & Attachment: Interface Neurobiology & Social Work” will take place in Vienna City Hall. From 9 a.m. the focus is on early bonding experiences and their influence on emotional, social and cognitive development. These topics are relevant, among other things, because they shape brain development in childhood and adolescence and have far-reaching consequences for psychological and social development in later life.

The exchange between science and practice plays a central role at this conference. Attachment theory, which was primarily developed by John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, combines human and social science approaches and is supported by current findings from brain research. The theory therefore offers potential for a translational approach in which scientific models are tested in practice. Findings from attachment research can significantly improve the care of young people and serve as a valuable reflection model for professionals that they can use in their everyday working lives. ots.at reports that various areas of application, such as psychiatry, elementary education and social work, will be discussed at this conference.

Program and speakers

A highlight of the conference are the various symposiums in which well-known experts from the fields of neuroscience, cognitive psychology and cognitive science share their findings. The conference contributions include lectures by Claus Lamm, Human-Friedrich Unterrainer, and Gertrude Bogyi. The event will be moderated by Hannes Kolar, and there will also be a panel discussion with members of the international working group for interdisciplinary attachment research and Ingrid Pöschmann taking part. The organization of the conference is the responsibility of Dr. Isabella Sarto-Jackson, who works at the Konrad Lorenz Institute for Evolution and Cognition Research.

Overall, the conference aims to further develop theory-based action and intervention concepts in the area of ​​psychosocial help and to promote exchange between different disciplines. The influence of early attachment experiences is not only discussed, but also translated into practical approaches that can support specialists in their work.

Participation and contact

The City of Vienna supports the event, which is intended to act as a bridge between theory and practice. Those interested can find further information and the conference program at kli.ac.at retrieve. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Isabella Sarto-Jackson is available on 022433027414.

A comprehensive discussion about the relevance of attachment theory in today's society is expected at the conference, and the opportunity to communicate with non-scientists about the research approaches is highlighted as an essential aspect. eccsw.eu highlights that this can be of great importance for the future design of psychosocial assistance.