Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

A child demanding increased attention from a caretaker suggests which developmental stage?

1. Separation-individuation

2. Rapprochement

3. Concrete operational

4. Attachment

The correct answer is: Rapprochement

The developmental stage of rapprochement occurs during the later part of the separation-individuation process, typically seen in children around 15 to 24 months of age. At this stage, children begin to assert their independence and explore their environment while still requiring the comfort and reassurance of their caretaker. When a child is demanding increased attention from a caretaker, it indicates a struggle between the desire for autonomy and the need for emotional support. This behavior reflects the child’s attempts to balance their newfound independence with the security that comes from being close to their caretaker. The child may venture away during play but will frequently return to seek comfort or reassurance, showcasing their need for the caretaker's presence to feel safe. This behavior is a hallmark of the rapprochement phase, where children are increasingly aware of their separate identity while still longing for the connection and security provided by their caretaker. Understanding this framework helps clarify the importance of supporting a child's emotional needs during this critical developmental period.