Which attachment style is characterized by distress when the caregiver leaves and ambivalence upon return?

Prepare for the JCJC Human Growth and Development Test. Our quiz includes flashcards, multiple choice questions, hints, and explanations. Enhance your readiness and succeed!

Multiple Choice

Which attachment style is characterized by distress when the caregiver leaves and ambivalence upon return?

Anxious-ambivalent attachment is defined by distress when the caregiver leaves and ambivalence upon reunion. This pattern arises when caregivers are inconsistently responsive, so the child cannot predict availability and becomes clingy and anxious, seeking closeness but also resisting or showing anger when the caregiver returns. In contrast, secure attachment shows distress at separation but easy soothing on return, anxious-avoidant shows little distress and avoids the caregiver, and disorganized/disoriented shows confused or contradictory behaviors.

Anxious-ambivalent attachment is defined by distress when the caregiver leaves and ambivalence upon reunion. This pattern arises when caregivers are inconsistently responsive, so the child cannot predict availability and becomes clingy and anxious, seeking closeness but also resisting or showing anger when the caregiver returns. In contrast, secure attachment shows distress at separation but easy soothing on return, anxious-avoidant shows little distress and avoids the caregiver, and disorganized/disoriented shows confused or contradictory behaviors.

More practice questions