Mindblindness: Mental Maps, Attachment Styles, Internal Working Model (IWM)

Introduction to Mental Maps and Internal Working Models

Our minds are like vast libraries filled with mental maps—internal representations that shape how we perceive and interact with the world. These mental maps are subjective, idiosyncratic constructs that influence everything from our sense of self to how we form relationships. Among these maps is the crucial internal working model, a psychological framework originating in early childhood that governs how we attach to others.

Attachment style, a behavioral expression of this internal working model, manifests in the way we relate to significant people in our lives. This blog post explores these foundational concepts—mental maps, mental models, and internal working models—and their profound impact on our emotional lives and relationships.

What Are Mental Maps?

Defining Mental Maps

Mental maps are internal cognitive representations of reality as perceived by an individual. Unlike objective knowledge, mental maps are subjective, shaped by sensory input, emotions, thoughts, and cultural background. They provide orientation and guide purposeful action in the world.

The Body Schema: The First Mental Map

The most fundamental mental map is the body schema—our internal representation of our own body. It includes our physical appearance, senses like proprioception (awareness of body position and movement), and the interplay between our body and the environment. This body schema creates a sense of continuity and coherence as we navigate physical space.

Expanding Mental Maps: From Neighborhoods to Identity

Mental maps extend beyond the body to encompass places, people, cultural ties, and emotions. These maps are highly individualized, influenced by nationality, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, and personal experiences. Our unique collection of mental maps forms the foundation of what we call identity.

Mental Models: The Frameworks Behind the Maps

What Are Mental Models?

While mental maps represent a domain of experience, mental models are structured internal representations of relationships between elements within that domain. For example, a mental model might describe how a team works together or how a physical system operates. They connect disparate elements into a coherent whole.

The Role of Mental Models in Decision-Making

Mental models enable us to simulate scenarios, anticipate outcomes, and guide actions. They are essential for problem-solving, learning, and adapting to new information. In team settings, shared mental models help coordinate efforts and improve efficiency by aligning members’ understanding.

Flexibility and Rigidity in Mental Models

Effective mental models remain flexible, allowing adaptation to changing circumstances. When mental models become rigid or hegemonic, they can hinder responsiveness and reduce efficacy, especially in dynamic environments.

Attachment Theory and the Internal Working Model

Origins of Attachment Theory

Attachment theory, pioneered by John Bowlby and later expanded by Mary Ainsworth, emphasizes the evolutionary importance of forming close emotional bonds, particularly between infants and caregivers. These bonds are vital for survival and emotional development.

Internal Working Model Explained

The internal working model of attachment is a cognitive framework composed of assumptions and expectations about relationships. It shapes how individuals anticipate support, affection, or rejection in their interactions with others.

Attachment Styles as Behavioral Expressions

Attachment styles—secure, dismissive, fearful, and preoccupied—are outward manifestations of the internal working model. These styles influence how people approach intimacy, trust, and self-worth in relationships.

The Development of the Internal Working Model

Early Childhood Experiences

The template for the internal working model is formed in early relationships with parental figures. Positive early attachments foster secure models, while neglect or inconsistent caregiving can lead to insecure models characterized by anxiety or avoidance.

Theory of Mind: Recognizing Others as Separate

A critical precondition for developing an internal working model is the emergence of theory of mind—the understanding that others have independent thoughts, desires, and feelings distinct from one’s own. This cognitive milestone usually develops by age four.

Mentalization: Comprehending Mental States

Mentalization is the capacity to understand and interpret one’s own and others’ mental states, such as intentions, emotions, and beliefs. It underlies theory of mind and is essential for healthy social functioning.

Empathy, Mentalization, and Attachment

The Paradox of Empathy and Theory of Mind

Interestingly, empathy requires assuming similarity between oneself and others, while theory of mind emphasizes recognizing differences. This tension reveals complex dynamics in social cognition and emotional connection.

Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT)

Mentalization deficits are linked to disorders like borderline personality disorder and narcissism. MBT is a psychodynamic therapy designed to improve mentalization skills, enhance emotional regulation, and foster healthier interpersonal relationships.

The Interplay Between Mental Maps, Models, and Attachment Styles

From Mental Maps to Behavior

Data and sensory input form mental maps. These maps give rise to mental models, which serve as frameworks guiding decision-making and actions. The internal working model, a specialized mental model, directs attachment-related behaviors.

No Conflict Between Attachment Style and Internal Working Model

A common question is whether attachment style can conflict with the internal working model. The answer is no—the attachment style is simply the behavioral expression of the internal working model. They are inherently aligned.

Practical Implications of Understanding Attachment and Mental Models

Enhancing Self-Awareness and Relationships

Recognizing your internal working model and attachment style can illuminate patterns in relationships, enabling personal growth and improved communication.

Improving Teamwork and Collaboration

Shared mental models in workplace teams promote coordination and efficiency. Encouraging open communication and flexible thinking helps maintain effective shared models.

Therapeutic Applications

Approaches like MBT emphasize restoring or developing healthy mentalization to repair disrupted attachment patterns and improve emotional well-being.

Conclusion

The intricate system of mental maps and models shapes our understanding of ourselves and others. The internal working model of attachment, rooted in early experiences and theory of mind development, profoundly influences how we relate to people throughout life. By grasping these concepts, we unlock deeper insights into human behavior, identity, and the foundations of healthy relationships.

References for Further Reading

• Bowlby, J. (1969). Attachment and Loss.
• Ainsworth, M.D.S. (1978). Patterns of Attachment.
• Fonagy, P., Gergely, G. (1996). Mentalization and Attachment.
• Baron-Cohen, S. (1995). Mindblindness: An Essay on Autism and Theory of Mind.
• Baknin, S. Malignant Self Love: Narcissism Revisited.

This exploration highlights the remarkable ways our minds construct internal realities that guide behavior, relationships, and identity. Understanding these psychological constructs offers valuable tools to navigate social worlds more effectively and compassionately.