At what stage do children typically begin to develop stranger anxiety?

Stranger anxiety is a psychological phenomenon commonly observed in infants and young children as they develop their social and emotional skills. This anxiety typically emerges in response to the presence of unfamiliar individuals, indicating that the child is becoming more aware of social boundaries and attachments.

The correct answer reflects that stranger anxiety primarily begins in the infant stage, particularly around 6 to 8 months of age. During this time, infants start forming strong attachments to their primary caregivers and may react with distress or fear when confronted with strangers. This behavior is a normal part of development as children learn to differentiate between familiar caregivers and unfamiliar individuals, marking a critical stage in their emotional growth.

This understanding is essential because it highlights the normal developmental milestones children experience. While toddlers may continue to exhibit signs of apprehension towards strangers, the initial onset typically occurs during infancy, thus aligning with the correct answer regarding the development of stranger anxiety.