secure attachment

Secure attachment is a healthy emotional bond primarily formed in early childhood between a child and caregiver, characterized by a sense of safety, trust, and support. It allows children to confidently explore their environment while using the caregiver as a secure base to return to for comfort and protection. Securely attached individuals tend to have positive self-esteem, good emotional regulation, and the ability to form strong, trusting relationships throughout life. In adults, secure attachment features trust, open communication, empathy, balanced independence and intimacy, and resilience to stress. People with secure attachment tend to maintain healthy relationships, express vulnerability comfortably, and respect boundaries. They are also more likely to foster secure attachments with their own children. To develop secure attachment, caregivers need to be responsive, consistent, and emotionally available, providing a safe and nurturing environment. Secure attachment benefits personal well-being and relationship satisfaction, supporting emotional stability and social competence.