SACE Stage 1 Psychology Practice Exam 2025 - Free Psychology Practice Questions and Study Guide

Insecure attachment, as identified in Ainsworth's study, is characterized by children who tend to avoid forming trusting relationships while exhibiting signs of anxiety. This attachment style is evident when children display discomfort or apprehension when separated from their primary caregiver or when faced with new environments or people. They may also show reluctance to explore their surroundings, often clinging to their caregiver, and can have difficulty seeking comfort or reassurance from them when distressed. This behavior reflects an underlying fear of rejection or abandonment, leading to difficulties in building secure emotional connections with others.

Contrasting with this, children who explore freely and interact positively with others typically demonstrate secure attachment. Indifference to a caregiver's presence and consistently seeking attention are also indicative of different attachment styles, such as avoidant and ambivalent attachment, respectively. Understanding these patterns can help caregivers and educators identify and support the emotional needs of children with insecure attachment.