When does separation anxiety typically begin in infants?

Separation anxiety is a developmental stage that many infants experience, typically starting between 4 to 8 months of age. During this period, infants begin to form strong attachments to their primary caregivers and may start to express distress when they are separated from them. This behavior is a normal part of emotional development as infants become more aware of their surroundings and develop a sense of object permanence, which means they understand that people and objects continue to exist even when they are out of sight.

As infants approach the 8-month mark, they may become more vocal and visible in their distress, often crying or reaching out for their caregiver when they perceive a separation. This is a key time in their emotional growth, as they learn to navigate their relationships and the emotional reality of being apart from their primary attachment figure.

In contrast, separation anxiety is less common or may not be evident at 2-4 months, as infants in this age range are still developing their social awareness and attachment. By 12-18 months, while separation anxiety can still occur, it typically evolves into more complex behaviors, such as tantrums or clinging, as toddlers assert their independence while also navigating the anxiety of separating from their caregivers. Understanding the timing of these developmental milestones is crucial for