What does stranger anxiety refer to in infants?

Stranger anxiety in infants refers specifically to a fear of unfamiliar people. This developmental phenomenon typically emerges around 6 to 12 months of age when infants start to recognize and differentiate between familiar faces and those they do not know. During this stage, infants may show distress or apprehension when approached by strangers, reflecting their growing awareness of social dynamics and their desire for comfort from familiar caregivers. This behavior is considered a normal part of development and indicates that the infant is developing attachment and social awareness.

The other options represent different types of fears or anxieties that are not associated with the specific term "stranger anxiety." For instance, a fear of darkness pertains to a different developmental concern and is unrelated to the recognition of people, while phobias of loud noises and fears of separation from parents are distinct anxieties with separate developmental implications. Understanding stranger anxiety provides insight into an infant's emotional and social development, highlighting their emerging attachments and the importance of familiar caregivers in providing security and comfort during new social interactions.