Which developmental milestone must be reached before an infant experiences separation anxiety?

Separation anxiety is a common developmental milestone observed in infants, typically emerging between 6 to 8 months of age. Before separation anxiety can manifest, several other developmental milestones need to be reached.

1. Attachment Formation: Infants must develop a strong attachment to their primary caregivers. This emotional bond is critical because separation anxiety arises from the fear of losing that bond when the caregiver is absent.

2. Cognitive Development: The infant must have reached a level of cognitive development that includes object permanence. This means that they understand that objects, including caregivers, continue to exist even when they cannot see them. This understanding usually begins to develop around 4-7 months of age.

3. Social Awareness: Infants must also develop a sense of social awareness, recognizing other people and their emotional responses. This awareness typically develops as they start to interact more with their caregivers and the environment around them.

In summary, the major developmental milestones necessary before an infant experiences separation anxiety include establishing an attachment to caregivers, developing object permanence, and gaining social awareness. These milestones are linked closely to the infant's emotional and cognitive growth during the first year of life.