According to attachment theory, which strategies support a child during caregiver separation?

• A. Remove caregiver presence
• B. Maintain caregiver presence, allow transitional objects, provide consistent routines
• C. Isolate the child
• D. Avoid routines

Answer: (B)

During caregiver separation, a child’s security hinges on preserving connection and predictable cues. Maintaining caregiver presence gives the child a secure base to rely on, helping them feel the caregiver is still available even if they are not together. Transitional objects, like a favorite blanket or stuffed toy, carry the caregiver’s comforting associations and offer emotional regulation when the caregiver isn’t physically present. Consistent routines create predictability, reducing uncertainty and anxiety by signaling what to expect next.

Removing caregiver presence removes the secure base; isolating the child increases fear; avoiding routines makes the environment unpredictable and harder to regulate emotionally.