What are the four types of infant attachment?

There is no such concept as "what are the four types of infant attachment." Infant attachment can be categorized into secure attachment, avoidant attachment, resistant (ambivalent) attachment, disorganized attachment, and dependent attachment. Attachment types are shaped by early caregiving interaction patterns and have profound impacts on infants' psychological development. If an infant continuously cries without settling, refuses close contact, or shows明显 developmental delays, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

1. Secure Attachment: The infant appears calm and at ease when caregivers are present, actively explores the environment, may show brief distress when the caregiver leaves, but quickly calms down and seeks contact upon the caregiver’s return. This type develops from consistent, responsive caregiving.

2. Avoidant Attachment: The infant shows little reaction to the caregiver's presence or departure, rarely initiates contact, and displays no obvious signs of seeking closeness even after reunion. This pattern often results from prolonged emotional neglect by caregivers.

3. Resistant (Ambivalent) Attachment: The infant strongly resists separation from the caregiver, showing intense crying and distress. Upon the caregiver’s return, the infant simultaneously seeks contact yet reacts with anger or resistance. This arises from inconsistent caregiving—responding unpredictably or with fluctuating warmth.

4. Disorganized Attachment: The infant displays contradictory behaviors, such as approaching the caregiver then suddenly freezing or withdrawing, or showing confused emotional responses upon reunion. This type is often associated with traumatic experiences or unpredictable caregiver behavior.

5. Dependent Attachment: The infant exhibits excessive dependence on the caregiver, lacks motivation for independent exploration, struggles to self-soothe when separated, and clings to the caregiver for extended periods upon reunion. This typically develops due to overprotective caregiving that limits opportunities for autonomous exploration.

In daily care, caregivers should promptly respond to the infant’s needs with gentle, consistent interactions; encourage appropriate independent exploration by providing a safe environment; avoid sudden separations or prolonged absences; and establish healthy attachment through predictable, regular companionship.