Inner Working Models

Inner Working Models are mental frameworks we develop based on our early experiences with caregivers, shaping how we perceive ourselves and others in relationships. These models influence our expectations, trust, and ability to form emotional bonds throughout life. For example, someone raised in a loving environment may view relationships as safe and nurturing, while someone with inconsistent caregiving might expect rejection or instability. Essentially, inner working models act as subconscious guides that impact our interpersonal behavior and relationship choices, serving as foundational templates that inform our emotional understanding and social interactions.