Which of the following describes a characteristic of secure attachment in children?

A characteristic of secure attachment in children is exemplified by trust, comfort, and reliance on a caregiver. When children develop a secure attachment, they feel safe and confident in their relationship with their caregivers. This is vital for their emotional and social development, as it allows them to explore their environment while knowing they have a reliable source of support to return to. Securely attached children are more likely to seek comfort from their caregivers when distressed and are reassured by their presence, which fosters healthy emotional responses and resilience.

In contrast, independence from caregivers may signify an insecure attachment style, where the child does not rely on their caregiver for comfort or support. Fear of separation represents anxiety often associated with an insecure attachment pattern, as these children may struggle with the absence of their caregivers. Unpredictable responses to adult contact could indicate inconsistent attachment behaviors, which are typically seen in insecure attachments where the child’s needs for comfort and support are not reliably met.