Ainsworth and Bell

Question 1

what is the research method?

Answer 1

controlled observation (interaction between baby, mother, stranger through one way mirror)

Question 2

why is the lab setting important when investigating attachment?

Answer 2

cannot measure attachment in a familiar environment therefore cannot comment on ecological validity

Question 3

what was the sample?

Answer 3

56 participants from white middle class families (USA)
- 23 longitudinal cases (birth - 51 weeks)
- 33 experimental (49 weeks)
- mothers also took part = EV

Question 4

what was the sampling technique?

Answer 4

opportunity - contacted from paediatrician

Question 5

what are the key components to the ‘strange situation’?

Answer 5

• mother as a secure base for exploratory behaviour
• female stranger
• 8 episodes

Question 6

what is the room like?

Answer 6

• 9x9 ft square of clear space
• 16 squares = measure of movement (locomotion) = quantify exploratory behaviour
• toys
• chairs for stranger, mother, baby

Question 7

what is a summary of the 8 episodes?

Answer 7

1- m, b, o enter room and o leaves
2- m sits in chair after placing b in specified place - only play with b if asked (3 mins)
3- s enters quietly, talk to m for 1 min, gradual approach to b + mother leaves
4- i) if b playing s = non-participant ii) if b not playing s tries to interest iii) b distressed s comforts
5- m enters (renunion), s leaves, b settles, m leaves again “bye-bye”
6- b left alone for 3 mins if distressed ep stops
7- s reenters and recreates ep 4
8- m returns, s leaves, end

Question 8

what was the key point of interest for observers?

Answer 8

the reunion

Question 9

what were some key findings?

Answer 9

• all but 4/56 cried or searched during separation
• 32% cried and searched, 20% cried desperately, 37% cried minimally

Question 10

what are some conclusions?

Answer 10

• absence of a mother heightened attachment behaviour