Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

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Prepare for the Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice scenarios, each enriched with explanations. Ready yourself for success!

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At what age does an infant typically begin to manifest a fear of strangers?

  1. Three months

  2. Six months

  3. Nine months

  4. One year

The correct answer is: Six months

Infants typically begin to manifest a fear of strangers around six months of age. This developmental milestone is part of a broader emotional and social development process known as "stranger anxiety." At this age, infants start to recognize familiar faces and may express apprehension or fear towards those who are unfamiliar. This behavior is believed to be an evolutionary response that helps infants bond with their caregivers, ensuring safety and protection. The onset of stranger anxiety reflects the baby's growing cognitive abilities, as they begin to distinguish between familiar and unfamiliar individuals and develop a sense of trust in their primary caregivers. This fear is usually most pronounced between six months to around two years, after which it often diminishes as the child becomes more socially adept and able to engage with a wider array of individuals. Understanding the timeline of this emotional and social development is crucial for parents and caregivers, as it helps them create a supportive environment for the child during this period of adjustment to social interactions.