At what age do children typically begin to show stranger anxiety?

Children typically begin to show stranger anxiety around 6 to 18 months of age. This developmental stage is significant because it reflects an important aspect of emotional and social development. At this age, infants become more aware of their surroundings and start to differentiate between familiar faces and unfamiliar ones. As attachment to primary caregivers strengthens, children may exhibit distress or anxiety when approached by strangers or when separated from their caregivers.

Stranger anxiety is considered a normal part of child development. It often arises as children begin to develop a sense of self and an understanding of who is part of their social world. This behavior can peak around 9 to 12 months and usually begins to diminish by the time children reach around 2 years of age, as their social and emotional development continues to advance. Recognizing this milestone is important for caregivers and healthcare providers, as it helps in understanding child behavior and ensuring that children's emotional and developmental needs are met during this critical period.