Social referencing refers to the process wherein infants use the affective displays of an adult to regulate their behaviors toward environmental objects, persons, and situations. Social referencing represents one of the major mechanisms by which infants come to understand the world around them.

What is an example of social referencing?

Social referencing occurs when infants look at the facial expressions of others to help figure out how to proceed in a certain situation. ... For example, an infant presented with a new toy car may look at the facial expressions of his mother for guidance before determining whether to play with the car.

Why do you think social referencing develops in infancy?

It's a sign of maturation and one of the first forms of communication between parents and baby. This appears in little ones when they're about two months old.