Timmy has just had his first birthday. Even though he is a "big boy" now, Timmy still becomes very upset whenever his parents leave him with a sitter, even for short periods of time. Upon their return, Timmy still appears to be distressed and is not easily soothed. Even though he seems to want his parents to hold him, he fidgets or pulls away once in their arms. Which of Ainsworth's classifications best fits Timmy?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Timmy displays characteristics of the insecure-resistant attachment style. He becomes upset when his parents leave him and is not easily soothed upon their return. He also exhibits ambivalent behavior toward his parents, wanting to be held but also pulling away once in their arms.

Timmy Has Just Had His First Birthday