Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 93%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
An 18-month-old toddler who has been hospitalized for 10 days. After the toddler's mother leaves the room, the toddler is sitting quietly in the corner of the crib, sucking her thumb and turning away from the nurse.The nurse should understand that these behaviors indicate which of the following developmental reactions?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D, Separation anxiety. This is because separation anxiety refers to distress or fear experienced when separated from a primary caregiver. In the scenario described, the behaviors of the individual indicate a fear or distress when being separated from the mother. Developing autonomy (A) is more about asserting independence, resentment toward the mother (B) is not supported by the information given, and regression (C) involves reverting to earlier stages of development rather than separation anxiety.