What practice was influenced by Michael Rutter's findings regarding attachment?

The practice influenced by Michael Rutter's findings regarding attachment emphasizes that babies removed at birth should be placed in foster families. Rutter's research highlighted the critical importance of early attachments in ensuring healthy emotional and social development. He found that infants who develop strong attachments, particularly within supportive family structures, show better outcomes in terms of mental health and social skills compared to those who remain in institutions where individual attention is limited.

By advocating for the placement of babies in foster care as opposed to remaining in institutions or being left alone, Rutter's work promotes a more nurturing environment that fosters attachment. This evidence suggests that establishing close, caring relationships from a young age is vital for optimal development, making the placement of infants into family settings particularly essential. The emphasis on fostering these attachments aligns with the best practices in early childhood development, highlighting the need for positive, consistent caregiving that is often more feasible in a home environment than in an institutional setting.