Which statement about adult responses to infant cries is incorrect?

The statement about responding too quickly potentially leading to 'spoiling' the child is often misunderstood in the context of infant care. When caregivers respond promptly to an infant's cries, they foster a secure attachment and trust, showing the child that their needs will be met. This immediate response is crucial for their emotional development and helps to stabilize their feelings of distress. The concept that responding too quickly can spoil a child is rooted more in misconceptions about behavior management rather than in developmental psychology. It overlooks the importance of establishing a secure base for the child, which ultimately supports their independence as they grow.

In contrast, the idea that responding too slowly might increase anxiety is well-supported; infants rely on their caregivers for emotional regulation. Likewise, while it can be argued that responding to every cry is vital in the early stages for building trust, it's also integral for caregivers to recognize the nuances in an infant’s cries as they learn to communicate. Ignoring cries in hopes of fostering independence is misleading, as it can lead to feelings of neglect or insecurity rather than promoting healthy independence. Overall, understanding infant cues and responding appropriately helps to nurture their emotional and psychological development.