Separation-Individuation theory By Mahler

Question 1

Stage 1 autistic phase

Answer 1

DescriptionTakes place during first few weeks of life. Child is cut off, spends most of time sleeping

Question 2

Stage 2 symbiotic phase

Answer 2

DescriptionThis lasts until around 6 months of age, the child considers themselves and the mother to be a single unit and has no sense of themselves as an individual

Question 3

Stage 3 seperation individuation stage

Answer 3

DescriptionDuring this phase the child learns to be an individual. This phase is split up into the following sub phases; differentiation, practicing, rapprochement, object constancy