What did Ainsworth's experiment reveal about children's behavior in strange situations?

Ainsworth's experiment, known as the "Strange Situation," was a groundbreaking study that observed how children respond to their caregivers in unfamiliar environments. The primary focus of the study was to assess the attachment styles of children based on their behavior when separated and then reunited with their caregivers.

The correct answer is that children feel more secure with their caregiver present. Ainsworth identified different attachment styles: secure, avoidant, and anxious-ambivalent. Children who displayed secure attachment typically used their caregiver as a secure base for exploration, demonstrating confidence in their presence. When the caregiver was present, these children showed greater exploration of the environment and were more likely to play with toys, reflecting a sense of security and comfort that encouraged independent play.

This sense of security is significant because it implies that a secure attachment fosters emotional well-being and development, allowing children to confidently navigate their surroundings. When the caregiver was absent, children with secure attachments would typically show signs of distress but were quickly comforted upon reunion. Thus, Ainsworth's findings underscore the importance of a caregiver's presence in promoting a secure environment for children.