Human Growth and Development CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is the term for when babies begin to develop a sense of self and an attachment to particular people?

1. Infantile amnesia

2. Object permanence

3. Self-identification

4. Separation anxiety

The correct answer is: Separation anxiety

Option A, Infantile amnesia, refers to the inability of adults to remember events that occurred during infancy. This is unrelated to the development of a sense of self and attachment. Option B, Object permanence, is the understanding that objects/people continue to exist even when they cannot be seen or heard. This is also unrelated to the development of a sense of self and attachment. Option C, Self-identification, is a general term that refers to the way individuals define themselves. While this is related to the development of a sense of self, it does not specifically pertain to infants and their attachment to others. The correct answer, Option D, Separation anxiety, refers to the fear and distress that infants experience when separated from familiar caregivers. This is a key component in the development of attachment and a sense of self.