Question

A researcher watches from a one-way mirror as a young child, who had been separated from her mother for five minutes, is reunited. the researcher notes that the child seems to avoid eye contact with her mother and prefers to play alone. based on these observations, the researcher might be likely to classify the child as group of answer choices

O insecure-resistant.
O secure-confident.
O securely attached.
O insecure avoidant.
O insecure-disorganized.

Answer 1

The child's behavior suggests an insecure avoidant attachment style, indicating a caregiver who is often insensitive and inattentive to the child's needs.

Step-by-step explanation:

A researcher observing a child who avoids eye contact and prefers to play alone upon reunion with her mother would likely classify the child as having an insecure avoidant attachment style. This classification is based on Mary Ainsworth's attachment theory, which categorizes the avoidant attachment style as one where the child is unresponsive to the parent, does not see the parent as a secure base, and does not show a strong reaction when the parent leaves or returns. These children are typically used to having a caregiver who is insensitive and inattentive to their needs, according to Ainsworth's research.

In contrast, securely attached children show distress when separated and are happy when the caregiver returns, using the caregiver as a secure base for exploration and comfort in times of stress. Insecure-resistant children demonstrate clinginess coupled with rejection of the caregiver upon return. Disorganized attachment is characterized by odd and disoriented behaviors during reunion, often seen in children who have experienced abuse.