AP Psychology Practice Test

The differentiation between anxious ambivalent and avoidant attachment styles can be understood through the behaviors of children in stressful situations, particularly in relation to their caregivers. Anxious ambivalent children typically show hesitation when it comes to exploration, especially in the presence of their caregiver. They may cling to their caregiver and exhibit anxiety or distress, suggesting they do not feel securely attached. This lack of security leads to a lower level of exploration, as their focus is more on the caregiver than on their surroundings.

In contrast, avoidant children tend to explore more freely, even when the caregiver is present. This behavior indicates an emotional distance; these children do not seek out their caregiver for comfort or reassurance and may act as though they are indifferent to the caregiver’s presence.

Therefore, the correct answer highlights that anxious ambivalent children explore less in the presence of their caregiver compared to those with avoidant attachment. This encapsulates the essence of how these attachment styles influence a child's exploratory behavior, reflecting their emotional responses to the availability and reliability of their caregiver.