Stranger anxiety typically develops at what age range and describes what behavior?

• A. Fear of unfamiliar people; begins around 6-9 months and peaks around 12 months.
• B. Fear of loud noises; begins at birth.
• C. Fear of animals; begins around 2 years.
• D. Fear of the dark; begins around 3 years.

Answer: (A)

Stranger anxiety is a normal development milestone where a baby shows wariness or distress around unfamiliar people. As infants form attachments and learn to recognize familiar versus unfamiliar faces, they use their caregiver as a secure base and may react when someone new approaches. The typical onset is around 6–9 months, with the distress often peaking around 12 months. You’ll see behaviors like clinging to the caregiver, crying or fussing, or turning away from the stranger while the caregiver stays close. Over time, many children become more comfortable with new people, though occasional fear can reappear in new situations. Other fears, like loud noises, animals, or the dark, follow different patterns and timelines.