Which description captures Secure Attachment?

Which description captures Secure Attachment?

• A. Child uses caregiver as secure base from which to explore environment.
• B. Child becomes upset when caregiver leaves.
• C. Child moves away on reunion.
• D. Infant shows insecurity and signs of being disoriented.

Answer: (A)

Secure attachment is shown when the child uses the caregiver as a secure base from which to explore the environment. This means the child feels safe enough to venture out, knowing the caregiver is available for support if needed, and can return for comfort without losing confidence. The caregiver’s presence enables exploration, and upon reunion the child is typically soothed and ready to resume activity. While distress at separation can occur, it is the secure base function—using the caregiver to support safe exploration—that best characterizes secure attachment. Moving away on reunion suggests avoidance, and disorientation signals a disorganized pattern, both of which are not secure forms of attachment.

Secure attachment is shown when the child uses the caregiver as a secure base from which to explore the environment. This means the child feels safe enough to venture out, knowing the caregiver is available for support if needed, and can return for comfort without losing confidence. The caregiver’s presence enables exploration, and upon reunion the child is typically soothed and ready to resume activity. While distress at separation can occur, it is the secure base function—using the caregiver to support safe exploration—that best characterizes secure attachment. Moving away on reunion suggests avoidance, and disorientation signals a disorganized pattern, both of which are not secure forms of attachment.