At what age does separation anxiety typically peak?

At what age does separation anxiety typically peak?

• A. 12-18 months with a peak at 24-26 months
• B. 9-15 months with a peak at 20-22 months
• C. 3-9 months with a peak at 18-20 months
• D. 1-6 months with a peak at 9-12 months

Answer: (C)

Separation anxiety follows the attachment and object-permanence milestones of early childhood. It typically begins around 6–9 months and reaches its highest intensity around 12–15 months, with some children experiencing a second peak around 18–24 months as they're more mobile and more aware of caregivers’ absence. This pattern helps explain why toddlers often cling to a parent during departures and may resist strangers during this developmental window. If anxiety is extreme or persists well beyond Toddlerhood, it’s worth assessing for other anxiety concerns, but a peak around the first year is the usual course.

Separation anxiety follows the attachment and object-permanence milestones of early childhood. It typically begins around 6–9 months and reaches its highest intensity around 12–15 months, with some children experiencing a second peak around 18–24 months as they're more mobile and more aware of caregivers’ absence. This pattern helps explain why toddlers often cling to a parent during departures and may resist strangers during this developmental window. If anxiety is extreme or persists well beyond Toddlerhood, it’s worth assessing for other anxiety concerns, but a peak around the first year is the usual course.