social smile

a smile in response to social stimuli. It is first seen in infants at about 4 to 6 weeks of age but is not frequent and unambiguous until about 3 months. An infant’s failure to reach this developmental milestone by 6 months is considered an early indication of autism. Compare endogenous smile.

Browse dictionary by letter

a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z

Psychology term of the day

February 17th 2025

speculation

1. conjectural thinking that is not necessarily supported by scientifically determined evidence.

2. a loosely supported theory or explanation. —speculative adj.