Attachment Theory and Adult Attachment Styles

Flashcards covering key concepts and definitions related to attachment theory and styles.

Mary Ainsworth

Canadian-American psychologist known for developing the Strange Situation Paradigm to assess attachment.

Strange Situation Paradigm

A method used by Mary Ainsworth to study attachment styles in children.

Secure Attachment

A type of attachment where a child displays stranger anxiety and separation protest, using the mother as a secure base.

Insecure Avoidant Attachment

A type of attachment characterized by a child who is not distressed by separation and shows little enthusiasm upon reunion.

Insecure Resistant Attachment

A type of attachment where the child shows mixed patterns of responses to the mother.

Insecure Disorganized Attachment

A type of attachment marked by inconsistent and contradictory behavior in responses to the caregiver.

Caregiver Sensitivity

The ability of a caregiver to consistently and sensitively respond to a child's signals.

Cultural Variation in Attachment

Differences in attachment styles across different cultures, as shown in statistical comparisons.

Adult Attachment Styles

Attachment styles in adulthood predicted by childhood attachment, influencing relationship quality.

Secure Attachment in Adulthood

Associated with low anxiety and low avoidance, leading to healthy relationships.

Dismissing Attachment Style

Characterized by a preference for independence and self-sufficiency, and a lack of close emotional relationships.

Preoccupied Attachment Style

Desires emotional intimacy but often fears that others do not value them as much as they value others.

Fearful Attachment Style

A style where individuals want close relationships but struggle with trust and fear being hurt.