Alice takes her 1-year-old son, Derek, to visit an infant-toddler program in which she hopes to enroll him. Derek eagerly explores the room as long as Alice is present. When Alice leaves the room to fill out some forms, Derek becomes somewhat upset. When she returns, though, Derek quickly calms down. Which term best describes Derek's attachment style?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Derek's behavior of seeking comfort from his mother upon her return to the room indicates a secure attachment style. A child with an avoidant attachment style might not show distress upon separation, and a child with an ambivalent attachment style may remain upset or difficult to soothe even upon the caregiver's return. Slow-to-warm-up children are cautious in new situations but can eventually form secure attachments.

Alice Takes Her 1-Year-Old Son, Derek, to Visit an Infant-Toddler