3-1 Discussion: Impact of Attachment
When compared to parents or primary caregivers of children with insecure attachment types,
parents or primary caregivers are more receptive and quicker to respond to the needs of their children,
the children typically develop a secure attachment. Often, securely attached children do get upset when
their mother or primary caregiver leaves; however, they are able to separate from the mother or
caregiver and explore the environment around them. When they are upset or frightened, children who
are securely attached turn to their mother or primary caregivers for comfort. When their mother or
primary caregivers leave, securely attached children can, to some extent, be comforted by others, but
they often prefer to receive it from their mother or primary caregivers. Children with a secure
attachment to their mother or primary caregivers generally react with less intensity to stress, are better
at solving problems, are more eager to experiment and explore on their own and develop more positive
relationships with others. Children who have developed a secure attachment to their parents or primary
caregivers often are able to build positive, trusting, and long-term relationships with others as adults.
Adults who have secure attachment types frequently enjoy intimate relationships, can express their
