Final answer:
Attachment refers to the close emotional bonds that infants form with their primary caregivers. Infants need these bonds for normal social and emotional development. Different types of attachments, such as secure attachment, have been identified based on the child's behavior and the caregiver's responsiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
The close emotional bonds that infants form with their primary caregivers are referred to as attachment. Attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby, states that infants need to form a strong bond with their primary caregiver for normal social and emotional development. Bowlby also emphasized the importance of a secure base, where the caregiver provides a sense of safety for the infant as they explore their surroundings. In addition to Bowlby's work, Mary Ainsworth identified different types of parent-child attachments, including secure, avoidant, resistant, and disorganized attachments. Secure attachment is considered the healthiest type, where the child prefers their parent over a stranger, seeks comfort in times of stress, and has caregivers who are responsive and sensitive to their needs. This bonding process is crucial for infants' trust and emotional development, and it sets the foundation for their future relationships and social interactions.