Brenda introduces Erikson’s second stage of development, Autonomy vs. Shame, and highlights the importance of supporting a child’s growing sense of independence. Occurring between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, this stage is a pivotal time when toddlers begin to explore their abilities and assert their own choices.

At this stage, children are just beginning to understand that they are separate from the people around them. This newfound awareness can lead to a desire for autonomy, but it can also bring feelings of shame and doubt when they face challenges or are met with disapproval. Supporting a child at this stage requires a close relationship with the caregivers to ensure the child feels both supported and empowered.

Brenda gives a closer look into what therapy looks like during this stage but also gives excellent guidance on communicating during this stage. One crucial element during Stage 2 is rapprochement, which refers to the back-and-forth dynamic between a child and their caregiver. This term describes a child's growing awareness of their independence and their need to return to the caregiver for reassurance.

Even if you’re not working with toddlers or preschoolers, understanding the struggles of autonomy vs. shame is important. Issues that arise in Stage 2 can echo into later stages of life. Understanding the potential long-term effects of early developmental challenges can be valuable for therapists working with children, teens, and adults.

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References Mentioned in this Episode:

Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press.

Margaret Mahler’s Rapprochement in referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)

Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell & Black (1995)