People who have a(n) _______ attachment orientation are likely to respond with high levels of emotional distress to a partner's negative behavior, whereas those with a(n) _______ attachment orientation are likely to respond with indifference.
A) preoccupied; avoidant
B) secure; insecure
C) insecure; secure
D) avoidant; anxious

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to attachment theory, people can have preoccupied (or anxious) or avoidant attachment orientations. Preoccupied individuals have a hyperactivated attachment system and are hyper-vigilant to signs of rejection or disinterest from their partner; as a result, they respond to negative behavior with high levels of emotional distress. Avoidant individuals, on the other hand, have a deactivated attachment system and try to suppress their attachment needs and emotions; they are likely to respond to negative behavior with indifference or detachment. Therefore, the best answer is A, as it describes both types of attachment orientations and their typical responses to negative behavior.

People Who Have A(n) _______ Attachment Orientation Are Likely to Respond