... is exposed to various events that might cause some distress. The episodes involve the experimenter introducing the infant and the parent to a play room and then leaving, the parent leaving and being reunited with the infant, or a stranger entering the playroom with and without the parent present. Each episode lasts for approximately three minutes. The Strange situation test is based on the idea that if the attachment process has been successful, an infant should use its mother as a secure base from which to explore an unfamiliar environment. From the studies Ainsworth classified three types of attachment. (Ainsworth et al., cited in Psychology Neil R Carlson Pg 493) Types of Attachment Secure attachment; the child shows mild protest (separation anxiety) and contact with the caregiver. Anxious attachment; child remains closer to his mother showing signs of insecurity. Avoidant attachment; children show no little or no concern when the mother leaves ...

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