Question

The term reciprocal attachment behavior refers to which of the following?

a. Behavior during the sensitive period when the infant is in the quiet alert stage
b. Positive feedback an infant exhibits toward parents during the attachment process
c. Unidirectional behavior exhibited by the infant, initiated and enhanced by eye contact
d. Behavior by the infant during the sensitive period to elicit feelings of "falling in love" from the parents

Answer 1

Reciprocal attachment behavior involves the mutual, interactive bonding process between an infant and caregiver, characterized by positive feedback from the infant and responsive caregiving.

Step-by-step explanation:

Reciprocal attachment behavior refers to b. Positive feedback an infant exhibits toward parents during the attachment process. This concept is the mutual, interactive process through which infants and primary caregivers develop a deep and enduring emotional bond. Infants show this behavior by seeking closeness and demonstrating attachment cues such as smiling and cooing. Caregivers respond with sensitivity and responsiveness, reinforcing the bond and providing a sense of security. These interactions are rooted in attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby and later expanded by Mary Ainsworth, which emphasizes the importance of a secure base in healthy child development.