Definition of Separation anxiety
Separation anxiety is a developmental stage during which the child experiences anxiety when separated from the primary caregiver (usually the mother).
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
As infants develop, they experience various emotions, usually in a predictable order. Before 8 months, infants are so new to the world that they have little knowledge of what is ordinary and what may be dangerous, so new situations or experiences seem usual, and not frightening.
Signs and tests
There are no tests for this condition, because it is normal.
Treatment
No treatment is necessary for ordinary separation anxiety.
Expectations (prognosis)
Young children with symptoms that improve after age 2 are normal, even if some anxiety comes back later during stress. When separation anxiety occurs in adolescence, it may signal the development of an anxiety disorder.
Review
Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 4/26/2010
