What term describes an infant's common fear of strangers?

• A. Separation Anxiety
• B. Stranger Anxiety
• C. Attachment Disorder
• D. Proximity Anxiety

Answer: (B)

The term that describes an infant's common fear of strangers is Stranger Anxiety. This developmental phenomenon typically emerges around the age of 6 to 9 months, when infants begin to recognize familiar faces and differentiate them from unfamiliar ones. As infants develop their social and emotional skills, they become increasingly aware of their surroundings and the people in them. This leads to a natural apprehension toward unfamiliar individuals, which serves as a protective mechanism and indicates a growing sense of attachment to their primary caregivers.

Stranger Anxiety is an important milestone in child development as it reflects the infant's emerging cognitive and emotional complexities. The presence of this anxiety can foster a secure attachment to primary caregivers while also enabling infants to learn about social cues and interactions. Understanding this stage can help caregivers create a supportive environment through gradual exposure to new people, allowing infants to feel secure and gradually adapt to unfamiliar situations.