AP Psychology Practice Test

Children with an avoidant attachment style typically exhibit behaviors that suggest they are independent and may not seek comfort or closeness from their caregivers, even upon their return. This behavior often manifests as a lack of overt distress when the caregiver leaves and a continued focus on their activities upon the caregiver's return. They may seem indifferent, demonstrating little interest in seeking out the caregiver for comfort or affection.

This pattern reflects their learned behavior of minimizing emotional contact, often as a defense mechanism against perceived inconsistency from their caregivers. As a result, while they might acknowledge the caregiver's presence, they do so without the warmth or attachment seen in other attachment styles.