The Developing Infant and Child: Attachment and Temperament

A series of flashcards covering key concepts regarding infant and child development, particularly focusing on temperament and attachment.

Temperament

A person's nature, especially as it permanently affects their behavior; primarily biologically-based.

Attachment

The strong emotional connection that develops early in life between infants and their caregivers, as explained by John Bowlby.

Separation Anxiety

The emotional distress experienced by infants when separated from their caregivers.

Ainsworth's Attachment Styles

Categories identified by Mary Ainsworth for infant attachment: Secure, Insecure-avoidant, Insecure-resistant, Insecure-disorganized/disoriented.

Secure Attachment

A style where infants explore new situations when the caregiver leaves and initiate contact upon the caregiver's return.

Insecure-avoidant Attachment

A style characterized by little distress during separation and ignoring the caregiver upon return.

Insecure-resistant Attachment

A style where infants are very upset during caregiver absence and cannot be comforted upon reunion.

Insecure-disorganized/disoriented Attachment

A style exhibited by infants showing odd and conflicted behaviors in new situations.

John Bowlby

Psychologist known for his work on attachment theory, emphasizing the importance of responsive and accessible caregivers.

Mary Ainsworth

Psychologist who assessed infant attachment styles through the Strange Situation test.

Adult Romantic Relationships

Relationships that may be shaped by the attachment styles formed during infancy.