Klein’s theory of development

Klein’s theory of development focuses on how early relationships with caregivers influence a child's emotional and psychological growth. She proposed that infants experience internal mental states called "projective identifications," where they unconsciously project feelings onto others and identify with them. These processes shape their understanding of themselves and others, affecting personality and relationships later in life. Klein believed that early experiences, especially with caregivers, are crucial in forming both healthy and problematic patterns of behavior, and that understanding these processes helps in understanding emotional development and treating psychological issues.