Donald Winnicott - Object Relations Theory

Donald Winnicott’s Object Relations Theory emphasizes the importance of early relationships in shaping an individual’s psychological development. He proposed that our interactions with caregivers, especially in infancy, help form our sense of self and how we relate to others. Key concepts include the "true self" and "false self," where a nurturing environment allows for genuine self-expression, while a neglectful one leads to a façade for acceptance. Through play and transitional objects, children learn to navigate their emotions and the world, highlighting the deep connection between emotional health and relational experiences in childhood.