Resulting in compulsive behavior. A baby as young as 5 months, for example, may become wary in the presence of a strange face. In normal school-age children, imaginary threats are replaced by more realistic fears such as bodily harm. In general, healthy fears stop children from taking unnecessary risks. Children who are shy and withdrawn are more likely to develop marked fears than those who are outgoing.
Girls are more likely than boys to develop the severe, irrational fears called phobias.
Certain fears may grow out of parents' needs. After a divorce or the death of a spouse, for example, a parent may unwittingly encourage a child's separation anxiety out of a desire for companionship. And if parents are overprotective or fearful themselves, they may foster timidity and hamper a youngster's attempts to stretch his abilities. Action to take Your baby by now is strongly attached to you and her other regular caregivers. Make a special effort to reassure her among new people or surroundings.