. This is because attachment theory argues that the caregiver-child bond plays a significant role in regulation of the childÆs emotional experience and behavior throughout lifecycle development. According to BowlbyÆs theory of attachment, there are different types of caregiver-child attachment patterns that develop in the child dependent upon the type of caregiving. These attachment patterns are: secure, anxious-ambivalent, avoidant, and disorganized (Lyddon, 2001, p. 406). Mary Ainsworth has empirically tested BowlbyÆs theories in a variety of studies. Her work corroborates the existence of these patterns of attachment. Securely attached infants explore the environment, making periodic checks to confirm the presence of the caregiver. While securely attached infants show some anxiety when separated from the caregiver, they are easily comforted upon the return of the caregiver. Infants who are securely attached appear to view the attachment figure as available and responsive to their needs. As
...