Which type of emotions is most likely to be observed in infancy?

• A. Basic emotions such as joy, anger, and fear
• B. Complex self-conscious emotions like guilt and pride
• C. Social emotions like jealousy and envy
• D. Moral emotions such as shame and embarrassment

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the developmental timeline of emotional expression in infancy, noting that infants initially display more fundamental emotional responses.
2. Recognize that basic emotions such as joy, anger, fear, sadness, surprise, and disgust are universal and appear early in life, often within the first six months.
3. Identify that complex self-conscious emotions (e.g., guilt, pride) require a sense of self and awareness of others' perceptions, which develop later, typically after 18 months.
4. Note that social emotions like jealousy and envy also depend on social interactions and cognitive development, emerging after basic emotions.
5. Conclude that the emotions most likely observed in infancy are basic emotions such as joy, anger, and fear, as these are innate and do not require advanced cognitive abilities.