What attachment style is characterized by unresponsiveness to the parent and avoidance upon reunion?

The attachment style characterized by unresponsiveness to the parent and avoidance upon reunion is known as avoidant attachment. This style typically develops when a caregiver is consistently unresponsive to the child’s needs, leading the child to become self-reliant and distance themselves emotionally from the caregiver. As a result, when they are reunited, children exhibit a lack of interest in seeking comfort or closeness from their parents, which reflects the avoidance aspect of this attachment style.

Children with avoidant attachment may appear indifferent or not particularly affected by the parent's absence or presence, displaying minimal emotional expression. This behavior often stems from earlier experiences where the caregiver may have rejected the child’s attempts for comfort, leading to an expectation that seeking help and affection may not be effective or safe. Understanding avoidant attachment is crucial as it can influence an individual’s relationships and emotional responses throughout life, impacting their ability to connect with others and form secure attachments.