Child Development & Behavior Flashcards

A toddler throws a tantrum every time a toy is taken away. This behavior is best described as an example of:

Answer: Emotional dysregulation due to limited impulse control

Toddlers lack the neurological maturity to regulate emotions, so tantrums over frustration are developmentally typical rather than a disorder.

Which theorist described a 'trust vs. mistrust' stage occurring during the first year of life?

Answer: Erik Erikson

Erik Erikson's psychosocial theory places the trust vs. mistrust conflict in infancy (birth to 18 months), resolved through consistent caregiving.

A 4-year-old insists that the moon follows her when she walks outside. This thinking reflects which Piagetian concept?

Answer: Egocentrism

Egocentrism in the preoperational stage leads children to believe the world revolves around their own perspective.

According to Vygotsky, the 'zone of proximal development' (ZPD) refers to:

Answer: The gap between what a child can do alone and with guided support

Vygotsky's ZPD is the space between independent ability and what can be accomplished with skilled guidance or scaffolding.

Which behavior would be most developmentally appropriate for a 6-month-old infant?

Answer: Rolling from back to tummy and reaching for objects

By 6 months, most infants can roll over and intentionally reach for objects, which are key gross and fine motor milestones.

A nanny notices an 18-month-old bringing a book to an adult and pointing at pictures. This best demonstrates:

Answer: Joint attention

Joint attention — sharing focus on an object with another person — emerges around 9–18 months and is a foundational social-communication skill.

Separation anxiety typically peaks at around what age?

Answer: 9–18 months

Separation anxiety is most intense between 9 and 18 months as infants develop strong attachment bonds and understand object permanence.