Question

Eric's father is in the military and has been away from home for over nine months without leave and has not seen his son since eric was two months old. eric's father comes home and is anxious to spend time with his wife and son. however, during the first few hours of his return, eric cries and screams when he is alone with his father (without his mother being present.) eric is exhibiting

Answer 1

This is separation anxiety. The child is away from the only caregiver he has known for the majority of his life, and the introduction of a stranger into the equation (even though it is his father) causes Eric to be anxious and mistrustful of this new person. Eric is wishing for his mother to return to provide the care he needs.