Which attachment style is characterized by dismissive avoidance of intimacy and fear of rejection?

• A. Disorganized
• B. Anxious-Resistant
• C. Secure
• D. Avoidant

Answer: (D)

Attachment styles describe how people respond to closeness and the potential risk of rejection. The dismissive-avoidant pattern is marked by pulling away from intimacy and keeping others at a distance. People with this style tend to prize independence and minimize the importance of relationships, because closeness feels risky and could lead to hurt or rejection. So the combination of avoiding intimacy and fearing rejection best fits the avoidant attachment style. By contrast, disorganized shows inconsistent behavior, anxious-ambivalent (anxious-resistant) seeks closeness but fears abandonment, and secure individuals are comfortable with healthy closeness.