Which of the following is NOT a behavioral state?

• A. Deep sleep
• B. Light sleep
• C. Feeding
• D. Crying

Answer: (C)

Behavioral states are distinct, sustained patterns of arousal and responsiveness that last for minutes and show characteristic cues in an infant’s behavior. Deep sleep and light sleep are clear sleep states with different levels of brain activity, muscle tone, and autonomic patterns. Crying is another arousal state—an expressive, highly responsive condition that signals needs and readiness for interaction.

Feeding, on the other hand, is an active behavior or task that can occur across different states. It’s not a stable pattern of arousal or consciousness by itself, but a function the infant may perform while awake (and sometimes while transitioning states). Because behavioral states describe ongoing levels of consciousness and arousal, feeding doesn’t fit that category, making it the correct choice.