The strange situation experiment designed by Mary Ainsworth aims to
A-Classify and describe different parenting styles
B-Highlights the father’s role in parenting
C-Classify the attachment behavior of toddlers
D-Measure the resilience of infants and toddlers
C-Classify the attachment behavior of toddlers
C - Classify the attachment behavior of toddlers
The correct answer is C-Classify the attachment behavior of toddlers.
The strange situation experiment, designed by Mary Ainsworth, aims to classify the attachment behavior of toddlers. This experiment is a standardized procedure used to assess the quality of attachment between a child and their caregiver, typically their mother. The experiment involves a series of separations and reunions between the child and their caregiver, in the presence of a stranger. The child's behavior during these interactions allows researchers to classify their attachment style into one of four categories: secure attachment, insecure-avoidant attachment, insecure-resistant attachment, or disorganized attachment.
To arrive at this answer, you can eliminate options B and D. Option B is incorrect because the strange situation experiment does not specifically highlight the father's role in parenting; it focuses on the attachment relationship between the child and their primary caregiver. Option D is also incorrect because the strange situation experiment does not directly measure the resilience of infants and toddlers; it assesses their attachment behavior.
Now, we are left with options A and C. To choose between them, it's important to understand that the goal of the strange situation experiment is to classify and describe attachment behavior rather than overall parenting styles. Therefore, the correct answer is C - to classify the attachment behavior of toddlers.