Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Babies can form attachments to a variety of individuals, including parents, childcare providers, and siblings. This ability to form attachments is crucial for their emotional and social development.

Research in developmental psychology shows that attachment is not restricted to primary caregivers; rather, any consistent and responsive caregiver can be a source of attachment for an infant. Parents typically play a central role due to the early bonding and nurturing they provide. However, childcare providers can also become significant figures in a child's life, especially if they spend considerable time together and provide comfort, safety, and attention. Additionally, siblings, particularly older ones, can also create strong emotional bonds through interaction and companionship.

This broader understanding of attachment highlights the importance of a supportive social environment for infants, wherein they learn to establish connections with multiple individuals, thereby contributing to their overall emotional well-being and social skills.