Which attachment style involves clinginess and fearfulness before and after separation?

The attachment style characterized by clinginess and fearfulness before and after separation is known as insecure ambivalent attachment. This style often manifests in behaviors where a child displays significant anxiety towards their caregiver, leading them to become overly dependent and clingy. During the separation from the caregiver, the child may become very upset and have difficulty calming down even after the caregiver returns.

Children with insecure ambivalent attachment tend to have inconsistent responses from their caregivers; they may sometimes receive attentiveness and affection, while at other times they experience neglect or unavailability. This inconsistency fosters anxiety in the child, making them uncertain about the caregiver's availability and responsiveness, contributing to their clinginess and fearfulness during separations.

In contrast, secure attachment usually results in a balanced and healthy relationship with caregivers, where the child feels safe to explore but also trusts that the caregiver will return. Disorganized attachment reflects a lack of clear attachment behavior, often resulting from frightening or chaotic caregiver behaviors. Insecure avoidant attachment is marked by a lack of distress when separated and avoidance of the caregiver upon their return, which differs significantly from the clinginess seen in insecure ambivalent attachment.