Final answer:
Makani's attachment to her grandmother at 7 months old suggests she is in the secure attachment phase, where trust and comfort from the caregiver play a crucial role in her development and perception of the world as a safe place.
Step-by-step explanation:
Based on the observation that Makani, at 7 months old, has developed an intense dependence on her grandmother as a primary caregiver, it is likely that Makani is exhibiting behaviors associated with the attachment phase of development.
According to well-documented research by Mary Ainsworth, who used the Strange Situation procedure, the type of attachment Makani is showing could be indicative of secure attachment, as she prefers the caregiver over others and may seek comfort and security from her grandmother as a base for exploration and in times of distress.
Erikson's theory further emphasizes the importance of this developmental phase by stating that trust is foundational to our development during infancy, where responsive and sensitive caregivers help babies see the world as a safe, predictable place.