What does social referencing allow children to do?

Social referencing is a critical developmental phenomenon in which children look to caregivers or other adults to interpret unfamiliar or ambiguous situations. When faced with uncertainty, children observe the emotional responses of those around them, which helps them gauge how to react in similar circumstances.

By reading emotional cues from caregivers, such as facial expressions, tone of voice, and body language, children learn to navigate their environment more effectively. This skill is significant as it assists in emotional and social development, allowing them to respond appropriately to various social contexts, thereby fostering their understanding of social norms and expectations.

The other options do not encompass the primary function of social referencing. While understanding emotions (the first option) is a benefit that may arise from social referencing, it does not capture the process itself. Assessing parental behavior directly (the second option) suggests a more analytical approach, whereas social referencing is about interpreting emotional cues. Developing ambivalent attachments (the fourth option) relates to attachment theory and doesn't directly tie to the specific ability to read emotional cues to guide behavior. Therefore, C reflects the essence of social referencing effectively.