AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The classic signs of a secure attachment in a child are (1) an eagerness to explore novel environments in the presence of a parent/caregiver, (2) temporary distress when that parent/caregiver leaves the environment, (3) and comfort-seeking upon the caregiver’s return (see pages 510-512 for more on attachment).

Detailed explanation-2: -To become securely attached, children need a dependable adult who responds to their needs. Children who are securely attached use this special adult as their base of security. When children feel secure, they can move away from their dependable adult to explore, knowing they can always go back to that adult as needed.

Detailed explanation-3: -Ainsworth’s maternal sensitivity hypothesis argues that a child’s attachment style is dependent on the behavior their mother shows towards them. ‘Sensitive’ mothers are responsive to the child’s needs and respond to their moods and feelings correctly.

Detailed explanation-4: -During infancy, attachment grows through eye contact, through touch and closeness, through hearing and mirroring one another. It grows when parents soothe and attune to their baby’s needs in daily life. Through this developing attunement a baby comes to feel that her needs will be largely understood and met.

Detailed explanation-5: -Securely-attached children explore the room freely when their mothers are present, and they act friendly towards the stranger. After their mothers leave the room, they may become distressed and inhibited – exploring less, and avoiding the stranger.