Understanding Attachment in Psychology

Which of the following is NOT a type of attachment identified by Ainsworth?

• Secure

• Insecure-avoidant

• Disorganised

• Insecure-resistant

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'Disorganised' because Ainsworth identified three main types of attachment: Secure, Insecure-avoidant, and Insecure-resistant. 'Disorganised' is not one of the original categories she defined.

According to Bowlby's theory, what is the term for the innate system that ensures proximity between a child and their caregiver?

• Social releasers

• Internal working model

• Monotropy

• Attachment system

Answer explanation

According to Bowlby's theory, the 'attachment system' is the innate mechanism that promotes closeness between a child and their caregiver, ensuring safety and emotional support.

Which of the following is a potential impact of secure attachment in childhood?

• Increased anxiety in adulthood

• Difficulty forming relationships

• Higher self-esteem

• Avoidance of social interactions

Answer explanation

Secure attachment in childhood fosters trust and emotional security, leading to higher self-esteem in adulthood. This contrasts with the other options, which are associated with insecure attachment.

What is the term used to describe the influence of early attachment on later relationships, according to Bowlby?

• Continuity hypothesis

• Social learning theory

• Cognitive development

• Behavioural conditioning

Answer explanation

The term 'continuity hypothesis' refers to Bowlby's idea that early attachment experiences shape future relationships, suggesting that patterns of attachment established in childhood persist into adulthood.

Which attachment type is most likely to result in a child being clingy and dependent in adulthood?

• Secure

• Insecure-avoidant

• Insecure-resistant

• Disorganised

Answer explanation

Insecure-resistant attachment leads to anxiety and uncertainty in relationships, causing individuals to become clingy and dependent in adulthood. This contrasts with secure attachment, which fosters independence.

In which culture is the secure attachment type most commonly observed?

• Japanese

• German

• British

• Israeli

Answer explanation

The secure attachment type is most commonly observed in British culture, where parenting styles often promote emotional availability and responsiveness, fostering secure bonds between parents and children.

What is the primary focus of Bowlby's theory of attachment?

• The role of genetics in attachment

• The impact of early experiences on later development

• The influence of peer relationships

• The importance of play in childhood

Answer explanation

Bowlby's theory of attachment emphasizes how early experiences with caregivers shape emotional and social development later in life, making the impact of early experiences on later development the primary focus.

Which of the following is a characteristic of disorganised attachment?

• Consistent caregiving

• Predictable behaviour

• Confused and contradictory behaviour

• High levels of independence

Answer explanation

Disorganized attachment is characterized by confused and contradictory behavior in children, often resulting from inconsistent caregiving. This contrasts with consistent caregiving and predictable behavior, which are not traits of disorganized attachment.

How does attachment in childhood typically affect adult romantic relationships?

• It has no effect

• It influences relationship patterns and expectations

• It determines career success

• It only affects friendships

Answer explanation

Attachment in childhood significantly influences adult romantic relationships by shaping patterns of behavior and expectations in intimacy, trust, and communication.

Which of the following statements about cultural differences in attachment is true?

• All cultures value independence equally

• Attachment styles are universally the same

• Some cultures prioritise group harmony over individual attachment

• Cultural differences do not affect attachment

Answer explanation

The correct statement is that some cultures prioritize group harmony over individual attachment. This reflects how cultural values can shape attachment styles, differing from the notion of universal attachment patterns.