Question

Coping With Loss And Separation. Even though a toddler copes very well with separation and independence during waking periods, she may resist sleep because she must give up the control she has. Lack of control can be very scary because it means that coping mechanisms don't work in the same way as they do during waking periods. Which of the following statements is true?

1) The infant who has learned to sleep alone may well become the toddler who, because new fears arise, balks at going to bed and staying there.
2) Parents and childcare teachers plus other professionals who recognize this fact will be more understanding when children develop sleeping problems at home or react with difficulty to sleeping away from home.
3) Even though a toddler copes very well with separation and independence during walking periods, she may resist sleep because she must give up the control she has.
4) Lack of control can be very scary because it means that coping mechanisms don't work in the same way as they do during waking periods.

Answer 1

The correct statement is that an infant who has learned to sleep alone may resist sleep as a toddler when new fears arise. This is a part of the autonomy versus shame and doubt stage of development and can relate to various attachment styles formed with caregivers.

Step-by-step explanation:

As toddlers develop independence, they may experience difficulties with sleep and control. The true statement is: The infant who has learned to sleep alone may well become the toddler who, because new fears arise, balks at going to bed and staying there. This occurrence typifies the journey of autonomy versus shame and doubt in the context of Eriksonian developmental stages. During this stage, toddlers strive for independence, often reflected in the 'me do it' mindset, leading to resistance to give up control during sleep.

Moreover, according to attachment theory, toddlers form various styles of attachment, with the secure attachment being the most ideal. Securely attached children view their caregivers as a secure base but are distressed upon separation. Even parents of securely attached toddlers might face challenges when these children develop new fears that disrupt their sleep patterns.

Understanding these developmental and attachment dynamics enables parents and caregivers to navigate and support their toddler's needs empathetically during challenging periods, especially related to sleep and separation anxieties.