Separation anxiety disorder typically begins in which developmental period?

• A. Adolescence
• B. Early adulthood
• C. Early childhood (preschool)
• D. Middle age

Answer: (C)

Early childhood is when separation anxiety disorder typically begins. At this stage, children rely heavily on a primary caregiver and fear of being apart from that caregiver is common. When the distress is excessive, persistent, and causes significant impairment—lasting for at least several weeks in young children—it meets the pattern of separation anxiety disorder. This developmental period fits best because, unlike adolescence, early adulthood, or middle age, the onset during preschool years aligns with the time when attachment bonds are strongest and separation from caregivers is a central part of daily life (such as starting school or daycare). While later-onset cases can occur, they are far less typical, making early childhood the most accurate answer.