In the context of developmental psychology, a mother who is slow in responding to her infant's cries of distress is most likely to encourage which of the following in her child?

• A. increased trust in caregivers
• B. enhanced emotional regulation
• C. the development of insecure attachment
• D. the development of secure attachment

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of attachment in developmental psychology, which refers to the emotional bond that develops between an infant and their primary caregiver.
2. Recognize that secure attachment typically develops when a caregiver is consistently responsive and sensitive to an infant's needs, fostering trust and emotional security.
3. Consider the impact of a caregiver who is slow or inconsistent in responding to an infant's cries, which can lead to feelings of uncertainty and insecurity in the child.
4. Identify that such inconsistent or delayed responsiveness is associated with the development of insecure attachment, where the child may feel anxious or avoidant about the caregiver's availability.
5. Conclude that a mother who is slow in responding to her infant's distress is most likely to encourage the development of insecure attachment in her child.