Final answer:
Development differences in infants relate to the variability in how a baby's development progresses, especially in terms of psychosocial and neurological development. These differences can influence an infant's ability to establish attachment behaviors and hit milestones, as well as their reactions to physical touch and social interaction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Development differences in infants refer to the various ways in which a baby's growth or development may not follow the typical patterns. When we consider psychosocial development, particularly the formation of attachment bonds, we see that some babies may exhibit behaviors that differ from the norm. These differences can be due to neurodevelopmental disorders or sensory impairments and can affect the infant's social interactions and emotional connections with caregivers. Babies typically reach developmental milestones in a sequence, although the exact timing can vary among individuals. Sensory abilities like hearing and smell are well developed at birth, whereas vision develops more slowly. Reflexes such as sucking and rooting are critical for survival and also play a role in the bonding process. In cases where developmental differences exist, like with autism spectrum disorder or visual impairments, these connections may not be as easily formed. Research has shown that early interactions between caregivers and infants, including those facilitated by innate sensory preferences, are crucial. However, developmental differences can affect these interactions in various ways, such as a baby stiffening when held or not appearing cuddly. Understanding and addressing these differences early on can be key to supporting the child's overall development.