Which phase of separation anxiety indicates acceptance of separation from the parent?

The correct answer is detachment, which represents the phase of separation anxiety where the child has learned to cope with the absence of the parent. During this phase, the child begins to engage in activities independently and shows less distress when the parent leaves. This indicates that the child has developed a level of acceptance regarding the separation, recognizing that while they may be apart, they are still secure in the knowledge of their parent’s eventual return.

In contrast, during the protest phase, the child exhibits distress and cries out when separation occurs, showing that they are not yet able to accept the absence. Denial is less commonly referred to in the context of attachment phases, typically describing a defense mechanism rather than a developmental stage. Lastly, attachment refers to the emotional bond established between the child and parent, and it does not describe the acceptance of separation but rather the strength of the relationship that informs the child's experiences when faced with separation.