1. in the Strange Situation, the positive parent–child relationship, in which the child displays confidence when the parent is present, shows mild distress when the parent leaves, and quickly reestablishes contact when the parent returns. Compare insecure attachment. 2. an adult attachment style that combines a positive internal working model of attachment of oneself, characterized by a view of oneself as worthy of love, and a positive internal working model of attachment of others, characterized by the view that others are generally accepting and responsive. Compare dismissive attachment; fearful attachment; preoccupied attachment.
n.1. the idea that any entity has many aspects and that it may have a variety of causes and meanings. 2. in philosophy, the belief that ultimate reality is composed of more than one substance or fundamental kind of entity. Compare dualism; monism. 3. the existence in a society of people having different religions, ethnic origins, and cultural backgrounds. —pluralistadj.