Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion A and the other is labelled as Reason R
Assertion A: Separation anxiety emerges when the child has formed a clear-cut attachment with the mother.
Reason R: When there is clear-cut attachment with the mother, the child is able to move away from the mother to explore the environment.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true but R is false
• D. A is false but R is true

Hint:

Remember attachment theory:
- Clear-cut attachment = Secure base for exploration
- Separation anxiety = Distress when caregiver leaves
- Both emerge around 8-12 months
They are related but separate aspects of attachment.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This question tests knowledge of attachment theory (Bowlby) and separation anxiety in child development.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Assertion A:
Separation anxiety does emerge when a child has formed a clear-cut attachment with the mother (or primary caregiver).
This typically occurs around 8-12 months of age.
This statement is true.
Reason R:
When there is clear-cut attachment, the child uses the mother as a secure base to explore the environment.
This is called the "secure base phenomenon" in attachment theory.
This statement is true.
Relationship between A and R:
Both statements are true but they describe different aspects of attachment.
Separation anxiety is the distress when the caregiver leaves, while exploring the environment is the opposite behavior.
R does not explain A - they are complementary but not causally linked.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A, which corresponds to option (B).
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