Final answer:
The emotional bonding linking an infant to a parent or caregiver is called attachment. John Bowlby defined attachment as a key component of normal social and emotional development in infants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The emotional bonding linking an infant to a parent or caregiver is called attachment. Attachment is the affectional bond or tie that an infant forms with a primary caregiver, typically the mother or another caregiver. John Bowlby, a psychologist, defined attachment as a key component of normal social and emotional development in infants. Attachment is characterized by a strong emotional connection, which provides a sense of safety and security for the child.