ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

What is a key behavior exhibited by a child in the differentiation/hatching subphase?

1. Increased attachment to mother

2. Aware of being a separate individual

3. Exclusive play with objects

4. Increased sleeping time

The correct answer is: Aware of being a separate individual

In the differentiation/hatching subphase of child development, a key behavior that stands out is the child's awareness of being a separate individual. This stage typically occurs around 5 to 10 months of age, during which the child starts to explore the world more independently while still maintaining a secure base from the primary caregiver. During this time, the child begins to differentiate themselves from their parent, recognizing that they are distinct beings with their own thoughts and feelings. This newfound awareness signifies a crucial developmental milestone. It reflects the child’s growing cognitive skills and social understanding, marking the transition from reliance on the caregiver to a more explorative approach towards the environment. This behavior is foundational for healthy emotional and social development, as it establishes a sense of self and promotes autonomy. In contrast, the other options reflect different developmental stages and behaviors. Increased attachment to the mother typically happens at an earlier stage of the attachment process. Exclusive play with objects is indicative of exploratory behavior that may occur slightly later. Increased sleeping time does not correlate specifically to this subphase but can be influenced by various factors in a child's overall development. Understanding these subtleties helps delineate the stages of child development and underscores the importance of the differentiation/hatching phase.