Signs Of Attachment
Maccoby (1980) argued that we can see that two people are attached by looking out for the following signs:
Joy On Reunion: The person is welcomed back with smiles, hugs and clinginess even if they have only been gone a short while.
Proximity Seeking: Wanting to maintain closeness and spend time together. A baby might show this by watching someone closely and crawling after them if they move around the room.
Orientation To The Other Person: Attention is directed towards the other person and attempts are made to engage the other in activity or interaction.
Distress On Separation: A young baby may howl if someone leaves the room or an older child may feel homesick.
Stranger Anxiety: Or fear of strangers.
Secure Base Effect: Where the presence of the individual gives confidence to explore an unknown environment but they are frequently returned to or checked in on for reassurance.