What type of attachment is exhibited by children who are dazed and confused, showing inconsistent behaviors?

The type of attachment exhibited by children who are dazed and confused and show inconsistent behaviors is classified as insecure-disorganized attachment. This attachment style is characterized by a lack of a clear attachment strategy. Children with insecure-disorganized attachment may display contradictory behaviors, such as seeking comfort from a caregiver while simultaneously expressing fear or withdrawal from them.

This disorganization often arises in environments where the caregiver may be a source of both comfort and fear, preventing the child from developing a coherent strategy for attachment. The child's confusion is evident in their conflicting reactions, reflecting the lack of reliable patterns in their interactions with caregivers. Understanding this attachment style can be crucial for developing appropriate interventions and supports for children who may be experiencing trauma or unstable caregiving environments.