Which of the following is an important strategy for acquiring an infant's trust according to developmental psychology?

• A. Limiting physical contact to promote self-soothing
• B. Consistently responding to the infant's needs with warmth and reliability
• C. Encouraging the infant to be independent by leaving them alone frequently
• D. Introducing strict discipline at an early age

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that in developmental psychology, trust in infants is primarily built through consistent and responsive caregiving.
2. Recognize that when caregivers respond to an infant's needs with warmth and reliability, the infant learns that the world is a safe and predictable place.
3. Note that limiting physical contact or leaving infants alone frequently can hinder the development of trust because these actions may lead to feelings of neglect or insecurity.
4. Understand that strict discipline is not appropriate for infants, as their cognitive and emotional capacities are not yet developed to understand such measures.
5. Conclude that the key strategy for acquiring an infant's trust is consistently responding to their needs with warmth and reliability, fostering a secure attachment.