What is an emotional tie characterized by seeking closeness to a caregiver?

The correct answer is attachment because it refers specifically to the emotional bond between a child and their caregiver, characterized by a desire for closeness and comfort. Attachment theory, initially developed by psychologist John Bowlby, focuses on how these bonds form and influence a child's emotional and social development. When a child seeks closeness to a caregiver, it indicates a secure attachment, which is vital for their overall psychological well-being.

In contrast, personality encompasses a broad range of traits and characteristics that make up an individual's unique identity, and it does not specifically pertain to the emotional connection with caregivers. Temperament refers to the innate characteristics of an individual, such as activity level and mood, that influence how they interact with the world, but it does not define the emotional bond itself. Goodness of fit describes how well a child's temperament aligns with the demands and expectations of their environment, particularly the caregiver’s responses. While all these concepts are important in understanding child development, attachment uniquely identifies the emotional tie that leads a child to seek closeness with their caregiver.