Development and Management of Separation Anxiety in Babies

Separation anxiety in babies is a basic part of every baby’s initial years, which is characterized by the irritability and crying of the baby. By the first birthday, many babies develop separation anxiety, when parents leave them with some other caregivers. 

Although, separation anxiety is considered as normal in the development of babies, it can be frustrating for the babies as well as caregivers. Hence, adopting certain coping strategies will help both the baby and the caregiver.

Development of Separation Anxiety in Babies

In general, many 6-month old and younger babies cope well with new surroundings and caregivers. However, babies between four to seven months develop a feeling of object permanence and they understand that people or things exist, even when they cannot be seen. This is usually the time that babies start playing games like dropping things over the side of a chair expecting caregivers to get them back.

Babies recognize only the mother or father, and when they cannot see either of them, they draw a conclusion that the parents have gone. In addition, they do not understand the concept of time, and hence do not know when their caregivers will be back.

After eight months, babies become more independent and insecure, when separated from their caregivers. This is when separation anxiety in babies develops, and hence they become aggressive and depressed in the absence of caregivers.

If a caregiver leaves the baby with a sitter for an evening or sends the baby to a day care center, the baby may react by clinging to the caregiver, crying, and opposing the attention from others.

In some babies, specific situations can cause feelings of anxiety such as new caregiver, sibling, or environment.

Separation anxiety can extend from babyhood to elementary school years.

Management of Separation Anxiety in Babies

•  Timing: Avoid keeping your baby at a day care, if your baby is between eight months to one year. Avoid separation, when the baby is hungry or restless.
•  Practice: Indulge in the practice of staying away from each other and introduce new environments and people to your baby in a gradual manner.
• Stay Peaceful and Composed: While leaving the home, it is important to say a loving, nice, and firm goodbye. Also, stay peaceful and composed and comfort your baby or toddler by saying that you will be back.
• Keep Your Promises: It is vital that the parent or caregiver does not break the promise made to the child, as keeping promises made to children will develop a solid confidence in them.
• Distraction: Try distracting the baby with some fun activities or toys, songs, and games.

Conclusion

Parents need to remember that this is a temporary condition and will fade as soon as the babies grow. However, babies who are shy or have a specific stress are more likely to suffer from separation anxiety.

More information about Anxiety Treatment | Back to Separation Anxiety Disorder.

Finally, it is been observed that, there is no need for any medical help to treat separation anxiety in babies.