Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 9, 2025

Measuring Cardiac Autonomic Nervous System ANS Activity in Toddlers - Resting and Developmental Challenges
Published on: February 25, 2016
Multisystem physiological reactivity during help-seeking for attachment needs in school-aged children: differences as
Jessica L Borelli1, Gerin Gaskin2, Patricia Smiley3
1Department of Psychological Science, THRIVE Laboratory, 4201 Social and Behavioral Sciences Gateway, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA.
Abstract:
In this study, we sought to expand on what is currently known regarding autonomic nervous system (ANS) reactivity in middle childhood as a function of attachment. ANS activity includes multiple indices - respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) is an index of parasympathetic nervous system activation (PNS) and electrodermal activity (EDA) is an index of sympathetic nervous system activation (SNS). Children (N = 103) completed Child Attachment Interviews and read vignettes describing situations aimed to activate attachment needs (NEED; e.g., getting hurt, which can elicit need for comfort or assistance) and help-seeking (HS; when children experience need and seek comfort from attachment figures), while SNS and PNS reactivity were monitored. Attachment was not associated with children's SNS or PNS reactivity during NEED, but attachment was associated with physiological reactivity during HS: Dismissing attachment was associated with greater SNS activation (higher EDA) and preoccupied attachment with PNS deactivation (lower RSA, greater vagal withdrawal) during HS.
Related Concept Videos
Attachment Styles
Theory of Romantic Attachment in Adulthood
Attachment
Relationship with Parents: Attachment
Hazan and Shaver's Attachment Styles
Socioemotional Development during Infancy
Primary Temperament Types

