Attachment Theory

This video outlines four main attachment styles (or patterns) that emerge from early caregiver-child interactions. 

• Secure attachment — caregiver is responsive and available; child feels confident about exploring and trusting relationships. 

• Anxious / Ambivalent (insecure) — caregiver is inconsistent or unpredictable; child becomes clingy, worries about the caregiver’s availability. 

• Avoidant (insecure) — caregiver is emotionally distant or rejecting; child learns to suppress emotional needs and avoid closeness. 

• Disorganized (insecure) — caregiver’s behavior is erratic, frightening, or confusing; child lacks a coherent strategy for dealing with stress or connection.