Which attachment pattern is characterized by the infant becoming anxious before the caregiver leaves and is upset during their absence?

Which attachment pattern is characterized by the infant becoming anxious before the caregiver leaves and is upset during their absence?

• A. Secure attachment
• B. Anxious avoidant
• C. Disorganized disoriented attachment
• D. Anxious resistant attachment

Answer: (D)

Anxious-resistant attachment is characterized by a combination of clingy, anxious behavior and difficulty being soothed, stemming from inconsistent caregiver responsiveness. The infant becomes anxious even before the caregiver leaves, showing heightened worry and a desire to stay close. When the caregiver is away, the infant remains upset. Upon the caregiver’s return, the infant seeks closeness but also resists contact or shows anger, making it hard to calm down. This pattern reflects insecurity about whether the caregiver will be available, leading to intensified distress before separations and a push-pull response after reunions.

Anxious-resistant attachment is characterized by a combination of clingy, anxious behavior and difficulty being soothed, stemming from inconsistent caregiver responsiveness. The infant becomes anxious even before the caregiver leaves, showing heightened worry and a desire to stay close. When the caregiver is away, the infant remains upset. Upon the caregiver’s return, the infant seeks closeness but also resists contact or shows anger, making it hard to calm down. This pattern reflects insecurity about whether the caregiver will be available, leading to intensified distress before separations and a push-pull response after reunions.