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insecure attachment
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insecure attachment

psychology
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Insecure attachment refers to a pattern where an infant does not form a secure emotional bond with their primary caregiver. This can manifest in various ways, such as avoiding the caregiver, showing distress when separated, or exhibiting inconsistent behavior upon reunion.

Attachment theory, developed by John Bowlby, posits that humans have an innate need to form close emotional bonds. These bonds serve to protect vulnerable individuals and regulate emotions. Mary Ainsworth identified different attachment styles, including secure and insecure (anxious-avoidant and anxious-resistant) patterns, based on infant behavior in the "strange situation" experiment.12

Children with insecure attachments may struggle with emotional regulation and social interactions later in life. The quality of caregiver responsiveness significantly influences the development of secure or insecure attachment.12

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  1. attachment theory
  2. human behaviour - Attachment

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