Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Secondary intersubjectivity is characterized by infants beginning to interact by?

1. Simultaneously paying attention to the caretaker and another object

2. Concentrating on the primary caretaker

3. Interacting with the caretaker only when he or she is present

4. Ignoring the caretaker in favor of what interests them

The correct answer is: Simultaneously paying attention to the caretaker and another object

Secondary intersubjectivity refers to a developmental stage in which infants start to engage in joint attention, a critical component of social communication. At this stage, infants can focus on both their caregivers and external objects, which signifies an advancement in their cognitive and social development. This dual attention allows them to share experiences with the caretaker about the object of interest, facilitating a shared understanding and emotional connectedness. This concept contrasts with earlier stages, where infants primarily concentrate on their caregiver without incorporating other stimuli or objects into their interactions. By simultaneously paying attention to both the caretaker and another object, infants are not just passively receiving information; they are participating in a more complex social interaction that sets the groundwork for later communication and relationship-building skills. This ability to coordinate focus is essential for effective social learning and further development in recognizing social cues.