Mary Ainsworth & The Strange Situation

Explanation:
Ainsworth’s (1978) Strange Situation is a structured observational procedure categorizing infant–caregiver attachment as secure, avoidant, or ambivalent. The child’s behavior during separations and reunions with the caregiver indicates attachment quality.
Her work demonstrated that early bonding predicts later relational patterns, emotional regulation, and resilience.

Example:
A securely attached child explores freely, seeks comfort when distressed, and is soothed easily.

Citation:
Ainsworth, M. D. S., et al. (1978). Patterns of attachment. Lawrence Erlbaum.