Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Individual Practice Test

What could explain a child's regressive behavior during periods of family stress?

1. Increased independence

2. Desire for attention

3. Regression to earlier behaviors during stress

4. Burden of expectations

The correct answer is: Regression to earlier behaviors during stress

Regressive behavior in children, especially during periods of family stress, often manifests as a retreat to earlier stages of development. This can be understood as a coping mechanism in response to overwhelming situations. When a child experiences anxiety or uncertainty, they may revert to behaviors that provided them comfort or security in the past, such as thumb-sucking, bedwetting, or using baby talk. This phenomenon is rooted in the child’s innate response to stress; when stability is disrupted, children may seek solace in familiar behaviors that they associate with a sense of safety. Regression can be a normal reaction and a way for children to express their discomfort when navigating complex emotional landscapes. In contrast, while the desire for attention might contribute to certain behaviors, it doesn't fully capture the psychological underpinnings of regressive behavior during stressful times. Increased independence refers to a developmental phase where children assert autonomy, which generally does not correlate with regression. The burden of expectations might influence a child's behavior, but it is more aligned with performance-related stress rather than the instinctual, protective response seen in regressive behavior.