Psychology: “Why Do We Love the Way We Do?” – Attachment theory and adult relationships with Dr Megan Jones from University of East Anglia

Register here

Join Dr Megan Jones, a Lecturer in Psychology at the University of East Anglia, in discovering how our earliest experiences shape the way we think, feel, and behave in relationships. This engaging session introduces attachment theory and explores how attachment may influence adult communication, trust, and emotional responses. Through real-life inspired scenarios students will step into the role of psychologists to analyse attachment behaviours and suggest solutions.

The session combines a brief explanation of key theorists like John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, with interactive discussion and problem-solving tasks. Students will explore the four main attachment styles – secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganised – and consider how these patterns can appear in modern relationships.

Moving beyond theory, the talk encourages critical thinking about the relevance of attachment today, questioning how culture, social media, and changing family structures may shape relationship behaviours. Students will also reflect on whether attachment styles are fixed or flexible.

Ideal for A-level students considering further study, this session offers both academic insight and practical relevance, while inspiring curiosity about human behaviour.

Lecturer Profile: Dr Megan Jones

Our events are designed so that a group of students can take part from a classroom or students and teachers can take part as individuals, either from school or from home. There is no charge to take part.

As a live, participative event, this session will not be recorded but slides and other resources will be shared after the event, where available.

Suitable for: 16+ pre-university students studying, or with a possible interest in studying, Psychology and related disciplines. Student groups as well as students and teachers joining individually are very welcome.

Preparation/Pre-Reading: Students are encouraged to consider some of the issues and questions they may have. Students can also think about questions about studying at university level.

The IT Setup: The event will be run on Zoom and participants will be able to join using laptops, tablets, and mobile devices. If you are joining as a school group, we recommend connecting with one device and projecting on to a whiteboard. You will be able to interact with the speaker via typed comments and questions and/or via a microphone. Full details will be sent to those who have registered (see below) prior to the event.

Booking a Place: This is free for schools and colleges. If you would like to take part in this event, please register your interest using the link to the registration form below:

Register here