Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

What behavior is typically observed in securely attached infants during the "strange situation"?

1. They remain calm regardless of the caregiver's presence.

2. They show distress when the caregiver leaves but are easily comforted upon return.

3. They avoid the caregiver during reunions.

4. They express anger towards the caregiver upon reunion.

The correct answer is: They show distress when the caregiver leaves but are easily comforted upon return.

The behavior observed in securely attached infants during the "strange situation" is characterized by displaying distress when the caregiver leaves but being easily comforted upon their return. This attachment style indicates that the infant has a healthy relationship with the caregiver, feeling safe and secure when they are present, which allows for exploratory behavior in their absence. When the caregiver returns, the securely attached infant seeks comfort and is quickly soothed, reflecting trust in the caregiver's responsiveness and support. This pattern is integral to understanding attachment theory and its implications for emotional and social development in early childhood. The other behaviors, such as remaining calm regardless of the caregiver's presence, avoiding the caregiver during reunions, or expressing anger upon reunion, are indicative of insecure attachment styles, such as avoidant or ambivalent attachment. Each of these styles represents different ways that infants cope with separation and the return of their caregiver, highlighting the importance of a secure base in developing a child's emotional resilience.