Final answer:
Children described as avoidantly attached do not show distress when their mother leaves and do not seek comfort upon her return, treating strangers similarly to the mother. This behavior contrasts with securely attached children, who use the mother as a secure base and seek comfort from her when distressed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on Mary Ainsworth's studies, the type of children who did not care if the mother left the room, made little effort to seek contact with her on her return, and treated a stranger about the same way as the mother can be described as avoidantly attached. These children show minimal response to the mother's absence and return, indicating that their attachment system is suppressed, possibly due to a caregiver who was insensitive and inattentive to their needs. This pattern of attachment suggests that these children have learned to remain self-contained and do not view their mother as a source of comfort or security. In contrast, children who use the parent as a secure base from which to explore are considered securely attached, showing distress when the parent leaves but comfort when they return, indicative of a sensitive and responsive caregiver.