Stranger anxiety is a normal phase for babies. It can be stressful not only for the infants but also for their families. A child may avoid baby sitters, grandparents and even one of the parents. This anxiety usually goes away by itself with time. In cases where it continues into later childhood, adolescence or adulthood, it is considered to be social phobia, which is a disorder treatable with medications or psychotherapy.
Signs
Children manifest stranger anxiety in different ways. Some become fussy and cry. Others just wear a fearful look and go silent, according to the University of Pittsburgh Office of Child Development. Or they may take on a hiding posture, covering their face in the arms of their mother, father or other caregiver, or place themselves behind the person.
Significance
Stranger anxiety comes about as babies develop "object permanence"--the concept of a thing or person still existing even if it is no longer in sight--and tends to run in tandem with separation anxiety, according to the website of pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene. Babies at this point will look for a toy they have dropped, and they will miss you when you are gone. They will be well aware that there is no one who can stack up to their primary caregiver. "They don't want the stranger, because the stranger is not you," Dr. Greene writes.
Time Frame
When stranger anxiety begins can vary widely. Some babies show signs of wariness as early as 4 months. On average, though, it begins at about 8 months, according to the University of Pittsburgh Office of Child Development. Infants are by that time becoming more aware of their environment and relationships. At about 12 months, as cognitive and physical skills advance, the anxiety can become very apparent, with the child running to a caregiver and begging to be held when a stranger approaches. On average, the anxiety subsides by age 18 months.
Solutions
You cannot do much to control your baby's stranger anxiety. How severe it is depends largely on the child's natural disposition, according to Dr. John Dorsey, a pediatrician in Beaumont, Michigan. Be patient and offer gentle support. Avoid scolding the baby for rejecting strangers. When new people stop by your house, have them ignore the child for a few minutes. In time, the baby is likely to approach and warm up to them.
Extremes
Stranger terror is the term for severe stranger anxiety. Children who experience extreme neglect early in life are prone to this condition. One sign is intense discomfort when any stranger is present, even in a familiar environment such as the child's home, according to the University of Pittsburgh Office of Child Development. Another is loud screaming, along with arching of the back, if a stranger tries to hold the child. The child may run and hide even if the stranger makes no effort to interact. If you notice signs of stranger terror, mention them your child's pediatrician or other health-care provider.
