Which emotional behavior is typical when toddlers separate from caregivers?

Which emotional behavior is typical when toddlers separate from caregivers?

• A. Separation anxiety
• B. Indifference to separation
• C. Overattachment to strangers
• D. Rapid mood swings

Answer: (A)

Separation anxiety is a normal developmental response when a toddler is apart from a caregiver. It shows up as distress, clinginess, crying, and protest when separation is anticipated, often peaking around 18–24 months. This behavior reflects secure attachment and the child’s reliance on the caregiver for safety. Other options don’t fit because indifference would imply a lack of attachment, overattachment to strangers isn’t typical since the reaction to strangers is usually fear rather than distress about leaving the caregiver, and rapid mood swings aren’t the characteristic response to separation.

Separation anxiety is a normal developmental response when a toddler is apart from a caregiver. It shows up as distress, clinginess, crying, and protest when separation is anticipated, often peaking around 18–24 months. This behavior reflects secure attachment and the child’s reliance on the caregiver for safety. Other options don’t fit because indifference would imply a lack of attachment, overattachment to strangers isn’t typical since the reaction to strangers is usually fear rather than distress about leaving the caregiver, and rapid mood swings aren’t the characteristic response to separation.