Which theory explains the drive to seek closeness and reassurance through relationships?

Which theory explains the drive to seek closeness and reassurance through relationships?

• A. Attachment theory
• B. Token economy
• C. Card sort
• D. Genogram

Answer: (A)

Attachment theory explains the drive to seek closeness and reassurance through relationships. From early life, humans form emotional bonds because these ties provide a secure base for exploration and a safe haven when distress arises. The tendency to seek proximity, contact, and comfort from others helps regulate emotions and reduces anxiety, a pattern that persists into adulthood in friendships, romantic partnerships, and family connections. Inner working models formed by early interactions shape expectations about others’ responsiveness and availability, guiding how we pursue closeness and reassurance when stressed. The other options don’t address this relational pull: a token economy uses rewards to shape behavior, not to explain why we seek closeness; a card sort is a cognitive or organizational tool, not a theory about relational needs; and a genogram maps family structure and history, which helps assess patterns but doesn’t explain the drive for emotional security through relationships.

Attachment theory explains the drive to seek closeness and reassurance through relationships. From early life, humans form emotional bonds because these ties provide a secure base for exploration and a safe haven when distress arises. The tendency to seek proximity, contact, and comfort from others helps regulate emotions and reduces anxiety, a pattern that persists into adulthood in friendships, romantic partnerships, and family connections. Inner working models formed by early interactions shape expectations about others’ responsiveness and availability, guiding how we pursue closeness and reassurance when stressed.

The other options don’t address this relational pull: a token economy uses rewards to shape behavior, not to explain why we seek closeness; a card sort is a cognitive or organizational tool, not a theory about relational needs; and a genogram maps family structure and history, which helps assess patterns but doesn’t explain the drive for emotional security through relationships.