What is the best description of attachment?

The best description of attachment is that it is a process by which babies come to know and form positive relationships with a small number of significant others. Attachment theory emphasizes the deep emotional bonds that develop between infants and their primary caregivers, which are crucial for the child's emotional and social development. This process is characterized by the infant's need for safety and security, leading them to seek closeness and comfort from their caregivers.

Positive relationships formed during this critical period help the child develop trust, explore their environment, and establish healthy relationships later in life. The quality of these early bonds can significantly impact emotional well-being and social functioning throughout an individual’s life. This understanding is foundational in various fields, including psychology, education, and early childhood development.