Which of the following statements about stranger anxiety is true?

• A. Stranger anxiety is a sign of insecure attachment in all cases.
• B. Stranger anxiety typically emerges around 8 to 9 months of age in infants.
• C. Stranger anxiety is rarely observed in children under the age of 2.
• D. Stranger anxiety is most intense during the first month of life.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of stranger anxiety: It is a developmental stage where infants show distress or wariness when encountering unfamiliar people.
2. Recall the typical age range when stranger anxiety emerges: It usually begins around 8 to 9 months of age as infants develop memory and attachment to familiar caregivers.
3. Evaluate the statements based on developmental psychology knowledge: Stranger anxiety is not a sign of insecure attachment in all cases; it is a normal developmental phase.
4. Consider the intensity and timing: Stranger anxiety is not most intense during the first month of life, as infants are generally less aware of strangers at that age.
5. Recognize that stranger anxiety can be observed in children under 2 years old, so it is not rare in that age group.