The strange situation procedure, in which researchers unobtrusively watch an infant in the presence or absence of several combinations of the child, caretaker, and stranger, is used to study _________.

A) social smiling
B) attachment
C) identification
D) dependence and independence

Strange Situation

A research procedure devised by Mary Ainsworth in the 1970s to observe attachment relationships between a caregiver and child through a series of introductions, separations, and reunions.

Attachment

An emotional bond that forms between individuals, particularly in the context of a child's early relationships with caregivers.