Dr. Frank Van Der Horst

Biography

Frank van der Horst earned his Ph.D. from Leiden University in 2009 and has published extensively on the historical aspects of attachment theory. His current research at Erasmus University Rotterdam focuses on tracing the historical evolution of ideas in behavioral sciences, particularly relating to the work of influential figures such as John Bowlby, René Spitz, and Harry Harlow. Van der Horst aims to further unravel the roots of attachment theory through the contributions of developmental psychologists like James Robertson and Mary Ainsworth. He has authored several notable publications, including 'John Bowlby - Psychoanalysis Ethology: Unraveling Roots of Attachment Theory' (2011) and 'John Bowlby. From Psychoanalysis to Ethology' (2012). His recent work encompasses editorial contributions to works on emotional connections, relationships, and child development, expected to be published in the coming years. His engagement extends into clinical practice, where he supervises graduates and postgraduates in clinical assessments within forensic psychiatry, highlighting his areas of specialization such as attachment theory applications, personality disorders, and child abuse.

Research Interests