Which attachment style is characterized by a child who is not distressed when left alone with a stranger?

The attachment style characterized by a child who is not distressed when left alone with a stranger is indeed the insecure/avoidant attachment style. Children exhibiting this style often demonstrate minimal emotional response to separations and reunions with their caregiver. When left with a stranger, these children may show indifference, indicating a level of discomfort with intimacy and an avoidance of seeking comfort from others. This behavior reflects an adaptive strategy where the child learns to rely on themselves rather than seeking support from caregivers, often as a result of inconsistently available or emotionally distant caregivers in their early experiences.

In contrast, secure attachment is marked by distress when separated from the caregiver and joyful interaction upon reunion, showing a healthy ability to seek comfort. Insecure/resistant attachment involves high levels of distress when separated, coupled with ambivalent behavior during reunions, reflecting confusion about the caregiver's availability. Disorganized attachment is characterized by a lack of clear attachment behavior, often arising from frightening experiences or inconsistent caregiving. Understanding these distinctions helps elucidate how different attachment styles affect emotional development and behavior in relationships.