At what age does separation anxiety typically peak in infants and small children?

Separation anxiety is a common developmental phenomenon that occurs in infants and small children as they learn to navigate their relationships with caregivers and develop a sense of security. The peak of separation anxiety typically occurs between 10 to 18 months of age. During this stage, children begin to understand the concept of object permanence, realizing that caregivers still exist even when not in sight, which can manifest as distress when separated from them.

As children approach this age range, their emotional attachment to their primary caregivers becomes stronger, making them more aware of the separation and causing anxiety when those caregivers are not present. It is a normal part of emotional development, and while it can be challenging for both the child and caregiver, it is often a temporary phase that generally diminishes as children grow older and develop greater independence.

In contrast to the other age ranges, the peak occurs specifically within the 10 to 18 months timeframe, aligning with critical milestones in emotional and social development.