Caregiver and child enter the unfamiliar laboratory setting with toys and two chairs. Caregiver interacts and plays with baby.
After a minute the caregiver withdraws and sits quietly, leaving the child to explore the surroundings. Researchers observe the use of the parent as a secure base in this episode.
After a further minute an adult unknown to the child (stranger) enters the room and talks to the caregiver. Stranger first observers and then attempts to engage with child. Researchers observe stranger anxiety in this episode.
FIRST SEPERATION: Caregiver leaves the room for three minutes and the stranger stays. The stranger offers comfort the child if necessary. Researchers observe separation anxiety in this episode.
FIRST REUNION: The caregiver returns and offers comfort to the child if needed. The stranger leaves the room. Researchers observe the reactions to reunion during this episode.
SECOND SEPERATION: The caregiver leaves the child alone in the room for three minutes. Researchers are again observing separation anxiety.
The stranger returns and offers comfort to the child. Researchers are observing stranger anxiety and the ability for the child to be soothed by a stranger.
SECOND REUNION: The caregiver returns and offers comforts the child. The baby is allowed to return to play. Researchers observe the reactions to reunion in this final episode.