Newborns are still adjusting to their new environment when they enter the world. They haven’t yet distinguished between “strangers” and “familiar” faces, and their initial reaction is often one of anxiety and feeling unsafe when encountering new people. This is their way of protecting themselves, relying on instinct to avoid potential dangers.
Experts also point out three other common reasons why newborns tend to cry when meeting strangers
Experts have identified three additional common reasons why newborns often burst into tears when encountering strangers.
The person doesn’t meet the baby’s aesthetic standards
In fact, newborns do have a sense of aesthetics. Although they can’t express it verbally, they sometimes feel scared based solely on a person’s appearance. To a newborn, the world is still very unfamiliar, and they may cry when they see someone who doesn’t match their idea of beauty.
A newborn’s visual and cognitive abilities develop gradually after birth. They are usually attracted to bright colors, symmetrical faces, and gentle expressions.
Newborns have their own aesthetic preferences, and features such as symmetrical faces and gentle expressions tend to appeal to them more. When they see a strange face, they may feel uneasy and worried. This is a natural defense mechanism to protect themselves, rather than a sign of being “picky” or “unsociable.”
Therefore, parents need to be patient and create a sense of security when their baby encounters strangers. Over time, as the baby becomes accustomed to new faces, they will feel more relaxed. This is an important factor in the child’s cognitive and emotional development.
A newborn’s visual and cognitive abilities develop gradually after birth
Cognitive Development in Children
Before a child turns one, they are highly sensitive to strangers and only trust their parents or close family members. They may exhibit anxiety and fear when encountering unfamiliar people. As they grow older, this recognition phase will gradually disappear.
Recognition is a natural part of a child’s development, indicating that they are becoming aware of their distinctness from the world around them. During this phase, children often react strongly to unfamiliar faces and may even cry. This protective mechanism helps shield them from potential dangers until they fully understand and trust their environment.
Parents can assist their children in gradually adapting to new faces and environments by providing step-by-step guidance, thus reducing the discomfort during this transitional phase.
This helps the child feel safe and protected, gradually opening up to new people and surroundings. Parents can create a friendly and cheerful atmosphere, allowing their child to interact comfortably with strangers. With guidance and support, the child’s worries and fears will be soothed.
The stranger has bad habits
Newborns possess an extremely sensitive sense of smell. When exposed to strong odors such as tobacco, alcohol, or body odor, they will feel uncomfortable. This discomfort often manifests as crying and an attempt to move away from the source of the odor.
The reason lies in the potential for these odors to irritate and make the baby feel threatened. Newborns are highly susceptible to unpleasant or strong scents in their surroundings. Therefore, parents should pay special attention to this issue.
Moreover, the sense of smell plays a crucial role in helping newborns perceive and form attachments. Familiar scents, such as the smell of skin, breast milk, or the unique fragrance of their caregivers, provide a sense of security and comfort.
To ensure the baby’s health and comfort, parents should maintain good personal hygiene when in close contact with their child.
