When does an infant usually begin to exhibit a fear of strangers?

Around 6 months of age, infants typically start to show signs of fear or anxiety towards strangers. This developmental milestone is part of normal social and emotional development. At this age, infants begin to form attachments to their primary caregivers and develop a sense of trust and familiarity with them. As they gain awareness of their surroundings and begin to differentiate between familiar faces and unfamiliar ones, they may exhibit caution, distress, or even fear when approached by strangers. This behavior is often referred to as "stranger anxiety," and it reflects an important aspect of their growth, as infants learn to navigate the world and develop social bonds. This increased wariness generally peaks around 9 to 12 months but can start as early as 6 months, stabilizing as they grow older and become more accustomed to interactions with various people.