In middle and late childhood, secure attachment is associated with which of the following?

• A. Lower academic achievement
• B. Increased risk of behavioral problems
• C. Higher self-esteem and better social competence
• D. Greater difficulty forming friendships

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of secure attachment. Secure attachment in middle and late childhood refers to a strong, healthy emotional bond between a child and their caregiver, characterized by trust and a sense of safety.
2. Step 2: Recognize the typical outcomes associated with secure attachment. Research in developmental psychology shows that children with secure attachments tend to develop positive social and emotional skills.
3. Step 3: Analyze the options given in the problem. Lower academic achievement and increased risk of behavioral problems are generally linked to insecure attachment, not secure attachment.
4. Step 4: Consider the positive outcomes of secure attachment, which include higher self-esteem and better social competence, meaning children are more confident and skilled in social interactions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that secure attachment is most closely associated with higher self-esteem and better social competence, rather than difficulties in friendships or negative academic/behavioral outcomes.