Ainsworth Strange Situation

The Ainsworth Strange Situation is an observational method used to assess how young children respond to separations and reunions with their caregiver. During the procedure, the child experiences a series of seven stages involving interactions with their parent, a friendly stranger, and periods of alone time. The child's behaviors—such as seeking comfort, exploring, or showing distress—are observed to determine their attachment style. This helps identify patterns like secure attachment (confidence in caregiver) or insecure attachment (anxiety or avoidance), providing insight into the child's emotional bonds and how they handle separation and reassurance.