Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Babies who are held more tend to:

1. Spend less time fussing and crying

2. Suffer higher rates of SIDS

3. Spend more time fussing and crying

4. Develop voluntary crying behaviors sooner

The correct answer is: Spend less time fussing and crying

Babies who are held more tend to spend less time fussing and crying due to the emotional and physical comfort that being held provides. This close physical contact fosters a sense of security and attachment between the caregiver and the infant, fulfilling the baby's emotional needs. The act of being held can help regulate the baby’s stress responses, reducing feelings of anxiety and discomfort that often trigger crying. Research indicates that holding a baby can soothe them through various mechanisms, including the transfer of warmth, the sound of a caregiver's heartbeat, and the motion of being in someone's arms. These factors contribute positively to the infant's overall well-being, making them less likely to fuss or cry excessively. When babies are consistently comforted and attended to, they are more likely to develop a sense of trust in their caregivers, positively influencing their emotional development and behavior.