AP Psychology Practice Test 2026 - Free AP Psychology Practice Questions and Study Guide

The attachment style that describes infants who are upset when their caregiver leaves and happy when they return is secure attachment. Infants with a secure attachment show a strong preference for their caregivers and seek comfort from them when they are distressed. They exhibit distress when the caregiver departs, which is a clear indication of their strong emotional bond. Upon the caregiver's return, they display joy and relief, demonstrating their trust in the caregiver's reliability and ability to provide comfort. This pattern reflects a healthy relationship between the child and caregiver, characterized by consistent responses to the child's needs.

In contrast, avoidant attachment is characterized by infants who do not show significant distress when the caregiver leaves and often avoid the caregiver upon their return. Ambivalent attachment involves infants who may exhibit clinginess and distress when the caregiver leaves but display mixed reactions, such as anger or resistance upon the caregiver's return. Disorganized attachment is marked by inconsistent behavior patterns, where the infant may seem confused or apprehensive towards the caregiver. Understanding these differences helps us recognize the importance of secure attachment in healthy emotional development.