Attachment: Intro

Question 1

What is attachment?

Answer 1

Attachment is a close, two-way emotional bond between two individuals, where each person sees the other as essential for their own emotional security.

Question 2

What are the key features that indicate attachment?

Answer 2

Proximity

Separation distress

Secure base behaviour

Question 3

Define proximity in the context of attachment.

Answer 3

When people want to stay physically close to someone they are attached to.

Question 4

What is separation distress?

Answer 4

Feeling distressed when an attachment figure leaves their presence.

Question 5

What is secure base behaviour?

Answer 5

Secure base behaviour is when individuals, even while being independent, regularly seek contact with their attachment figures for reassurance and security.

Question 6

Why is attachment considered a two-way bond?

Answer 6

Because both individuals in the relationship see each other as important for their emotional security and well-being.

Question 7

How can you apply the concept of secure base behaviour to real-life situations?

Answer 7

In real life, secure base behaviour can be seen when children explore their environment but regularly return to their caregiver for comfort, or when adults seek reassurance from loved ones during stressful times.

Question 8

How does separation distress manifest in everyday life?

Answer 8

Separation distress can appear as crying, anxiety, or sadness when someone is separated from a person they are strongly attached to, such as a child missing a parent or a partner feeling upset when their loved one is away.

Question 9

Give an example of proximity-seeking behaviour in adults.

Answer 9

Calling or messaging a close friend or partner frequently, or wanting to spend time together in person, especially during times of stress.