Ainsworth's Theory Flashcards
Behaviours observed during Ainsworth’s experiments
Crying to attract the caregiver, Smiling at the caregiver more than others, following the caregiver, crying when put down.
Separation anxiety as Ainsworth’s definition
Feelings of apprehension and worry experienced by an infant when they are separated from their caregiver.
Stranger anxiety
The same feelings as separation anxiety but experienced in the presence of strangers.
Stage 1 of the Strange Situation Test
Experimenter brings mother and baby into the room.
Stage 2 of the Strange Situation Test
Mother and baby are in the room alone, baby is free to play
Stage 3 of the Strange Situation Test
Stranger enters the room with infant and mother still present.
Stage 4 of the Strange Situation Test
Mother leaves the room and infant is alone with the stranger
Stage 5 of the Strange Situation Test
Mother returns to the room and stranger leaves
Stage 6 of the Strange Situation Test
Mother leaves infant in the room alone.
Stage 7 of the Strange Situation Test
Stranger returns to the room.
Stage 8 of the Strange Situation Test
Mother returns to the room and stranger leaves.
Insecure avoidant attachment TYPE A
20-22%, not affected by mother’s presence or absence.
Secure attachment TYPE B
55-75%, distressed when mother leaves but happy and comforted by her return.
Insecure resistant attachment TYPE C
7-12%, very distressed when mother leaves the room and not comforted by her return.
