What behavior might indicate disorganized attachment in a child?

Disorganized attachment is characterized by a lack of a clear attachment strategy. When a child exhibits confused or dazed behavior, it reflects a disorganized and often chaotic response to their caregiver. This behavior can manifest in various ways, such as approaching the caregiver but then appearing fearful or withdrawn, or seeming confused as to how to engage with them. This lack of coherent behavior suggests that the child may not have received consistent or reliable responses from caregivers, leading to the development of an attachment style that is confused and contradictory.

In contrast, consistent engagement with caregivers demonstrates secure attachment, where the child feels safe and understood. Frequent exploration in the caregiver's company indicates a secure base to explore the environment. Lastly, ambivalence coupled with strong attachment suggests a more anxious attachment style, where the child may feel torn between wanting closeness and fearing abandonment. These behaviors are more structured and represent different attachment styles rather than the disorganized attachment observed in the chosen answer.