The Still-Face Experiment

The Still-Face Experiment demonstrates the importance of responsive interaction between caregivers and infants. In this study, a caregiver initially engages warmly with the baby, then suddenly becomes unresponsive and maintains a neutral, still face. Babies typically become confused, upset, or try to re-engage the caregiver. When normal interaction resumes, they usually calm down. This experiment highlights how infants rely on social cues and connections for emotional development, showing that consistent, responsive caregiving fosters secure attachment and emotional well-being.