Prompt caregiver responses to an infant's needs are associated with which outcome?

• A. Infants develop ability to wait for care and show less distress.
• B. Infants become more demanding and anxious.
• C. There's no effect on distress levels.
• D. It prevents the baby from developing independence.

Answer: (A)

Prompt caregiver responses teach the infant that needs will be met and that signals will be attended to. This reliable, contingent caregiving helps the baby stay calm and learn to regulate emotions, so over time they’re better able to wait for care and experience less distress. When needs are consistently soothed and addressed, the infant builds a sense of security that supports gradual self-regulation and patience, laying a foundation for healthier social and emotional development.

In contrast, inconsistent or delayed responses can increase distress and becoming more demanding, while suggesting no effect on distress or hindering independence, which doesn’t align with what responsive care promotes.