A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT one of the behaviors observed in Ainsworth and Bell's study?

1. Loco motor behavior

2. Manipulatory behavior

3. Sleeping behavior

4. Visual exploration

The correct answer is: Sleeping behavior

In Ainsworth and Bell's study, known as the "Strange Situation," a range of behaviors was observed that were indicative of the attachment style between a caregiver and a child. The correct answer pertains to behaviors that were explicitly focused on interactions that reflect attachment dynamics. Loco motor behavior, manipulative behavior, and visual exploration are all relevant to how children express their attachment and relationship with their caregiver in this context. Loco motor behavior refers to the child's movements as they navigate their environment, influenced by their comfort or discomfort with the caregiver's presence. Manipulatory behavior involves the child engaging with toys or objects, often to seek reassurance from the caregiver, reflecting their attachment needs. Visual exploration relates to how children look to their caregivers to gauge safety and monitor their reactions as they explore their surroundings. Sleeping behavior, however, is not a focus of the observations in Ainsworth and Bell's study as it does not provide insight into the attachment styles being assessed. The Strange Situation emphasizes behaviors that occur during the interactions between the child and the caregiver in response to separation and reunion, rather than behaviors associated with sleeping or rest. Thus, sleeping behavior is accurately identified as not being one of the main behaviors observed in this significant study on attachment.