Final answer:
Longitudinal studies of attachment and later relationships examine how early attachment impacts later relationships. The Strange Situation procedure developed by Mary Ainsworth is an influential study in this field. Individuals with secure attachments tend to have healthier relationships, while individuals with insecure attachments may face challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
Longitudinal studies of attachment and later relationships are research studies that follow individuals over an extended period of time to examine how early attachment impacts their later relationships.
One influential longitudinal study is the Strange Situation procedure developed by Mary Ainsworth. In this study, infants and their mothers are observed in a controlled setting to assess the quality of attachment between them. Ainsworth identified three types of attachment: secure, avoidant, and resistant, as well as a fourth style called disorganized attachment.
These longitudinal studies have found that individuals with secure attachments in infancy tend to have healthier and more satisfying relationships later in life, while individuals with insecure attachments may experience difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships.