Separation anxiety is a common developmental stage and is most often expected at which age?

• A. Age 9 to 12 months
• B. Age 6 to 9 months
• C. Age 12 to 15 months
• D. Age 15 to 18 months

Answer: (B)

At this age, separation anxiety begins as infants form strong attachments to a caregiver and start to understand that the caregiver is a distinct person who can be out of sight. By about six to nine months, babies have enough cognitive development—recognized object permanence and a secure attachment—to notice when a caregiver leaves and to feel distress during that separation. This period is when such anxiety is commonly observed and developmentally appropriate, often alongside the onset of stranger anxiety.

So, the six-to-nine-month window reflects the early emergence of separation anxiety, aligning with infants’ growing awareness of separations and attachments.