Which is a behavioral state in the six-state model?

Which is a behavioral state in the six-state model?

• A. Deep sleep
• B. Quiet alert
• C. Breathing pattern
• D. Skin color

Answer: (B)

In the six-state model used to assess infant arousal and behavior, the infant moves through six distinct conditions that reflect how alert and engaged they are. Quiet alert is the awake, calm, attentive state where the baby looks at you, makes eye contact, and is ready to interact or be engaged with the environment. This is a behavioral state because it centers on purposeful interaction and social engagement, not just automatic bodily functions. Deep sleep is another state in the model, but it represents a sleep condition rather than interactive behavior. Breathing pattern and skin color are physiological signs, not behavioral states. So quiet alert best fits as a behavioral state in this framework.

In the six-state model used to assess infant arousal and behavior, the infant moves through six distinct conditions that reflect how alert and engaged they are. Quiet alert is the awake, calm, attentive state where the baby looks at you, makes eye contact, and is ready to interact or be engaged with the environment. This is a behavioral state because it centers on purposeful interaction and social engagement, not just automatic bodily functions. Deep sleep is another state in the model, but it represents a sleep condition rather than interactive behavior. Breathing pattern and skin color are physiological signs, not behavioral states. So quiet alert best fits as a behavioral state in this framework.