Question 1: Describe the main features of the pre-attachment phase in infant attachment development. When does this stage typically occur?

Answer: In the pre-attachment phase, which occurs from birth to around 6 weeks, infants show no specific attachment to a particular caregiver. They respond equally to any human contact through crying and smiling, which helps establish social interaction skills.

Question 2: Explain how the attachment phase called 'indiscriminate attachment' differs from the previous pre-attachment stage.

Answer: During the indiscriminate attachment phase, approximately from 6 weeks to 7 months, infants begin to show a preference for human contact and are comforted by familiar people. Unlike pre-attachment, they respond more positively to caregivers and can distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar people.

Question 3: Identify and describe the key characteristics of the 'discriminate attachment' stage.

Answer: In the discriminate attachment stage, around 7 to 12 months, infants develop a strong attachment to one primary caregiver, often shown through separation anxiety and seeking comfort from that specific person.

Question 4: Discuss the importance of the 'multiple attachments' phase that occurs after the discriminate attachment stage.

Answer: After forming a primary attachment, infants begin to form secondary attachments with other caregivers or family members. This broadening of attachments supports social development and provides a secure base for exploration.

Question 5: At what age does the 'discriminate attachment' stage usually begin, and what behavior indicates the infant has entered this stage?

Answer: This stage typically begins around 7 months, indicated by behaviors such as separation anxiety and a clear preference for a specific caregiver.

Question 6: Describe a scenario illustrating an infant in the 'indiscriminate attachment' phase.

Answer: An infant aged around 3 months smiles and coos at any person who interacts with them, whether it's a parent, stranger, or family friend, showing no preference for a particular individual.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram illustrating the typical progression of attachment stages, from birth to after 12 months.

Answer: [Answer should include a timeline with four stages: Pre-attachment (birth-6 weeks), Indiscriminate attachment (6 weeks-7 months), Discriminate attachment (7-12 months), Multiple attachments (after 12 months). The diagram should show arrows indicating progression over time.]

Question 8: Explain how the concept of 'secure base' is relevant to the different stages of attachment.

Answer: The 'secure base' refers to a caregiver who provides a safe environment for the infant to explore the world. During the discriminate attachment, the infant uses the primary caregiver as a secure base, which becomes more established as they form multiple attachments later.

Question 9: Why is the formation of multiple attachments important for an infant’s social development?

Answer: Forming multiple attachments helps infants develop social skills, adaptability, and emotional security by learning to relate to various people in their environment.

Question 10: Identify and briefly explain one psychological theory that supports the idea of stages of attachment.

Answer: The Learning Theory suggests that attachment is learned through classical and operant conditioning, where infants associate their caregivers with comfort and food, supporting the idea that attachment develops in stages as they learn to respond to specific caregivers.