If an 8-month-old shows stranger anxiety, what is the typical clinical guidance?

If an 8-month-old shows stranger anxiety, what is the typical clinical guidance?

• A. Reassure this is normal and will pass (correct)
• B. Force the infant to be held by others
• C. Ignore the screaming
• D. This is not normal, and a referral to a child psychologist may be helpful

Answer: (A)

Stranger anxiety at about 8 months is a normal part of infant development. Infants begin to recognize familiar people and become wary of those who are unfamiliar, which reflects growing attachment and cognitive differentiation. The best guidance for parents and clinicians is to reaffirm that this is expected and typically improves with time. Provide supportive, unforced interaction—stay nearby, let the baby observe from a secure distance, speak softly, and allow the infant to approach at their own pace. Maintaining routine and offering a comfort object can help, but avoid pressuring the infant to interact or demanding that they be held by others. This reassurance and gentle, patient support are appropriate because the behavior signals healthy bonding rather than a problem that needs treatment. Seek further evaluation only if the anxiety is extreme, persists far beyond the typical age range, or interferes with daily functioning and development.

Stranger anxiety at about 8 months is a normal part of infant development. Infants begin to recognize familiar people and become wary of those who are unfamiliar, which reflects growing attachment and cognitive differentiation. The best guidance for parents and clinicians is to reaffirm that this is expected and typically improves with time. Provide supportive, unforced interaction—stay nearby, let the baby observe from a secure distance, speak softly, and allow the infant to approach at their own pace. Maintaining routine and offering a comfort object can help, but avoid pressuring the infant to interact or demanding that they be held by others. This reassurance and gentle, patient support are appropriate because the behavior signals healthy bonding rather than a problem that needs treatment. Seek further evaluation only if the anxiety is extreme, persists far beyond the typical age range, or interferes with daily functioning and development.