Mahler-Cohen Developmental Theory

Mahler-Cohen Developmental Theory, developed by Margaret Mahler and further expanded by Robert Cohen, describes how infants develop a sense of self through stages of separation and individuation. It explains that from birth, a baby begins in a symbiotic state, closely linked to the mother, then gradually separates as they explore their independence. This process includes phases like differentiation, practicing, and rapprochement, where the child learns to distinguish themselves from their caregiver while developing confidence and emotional stability. The theory emphasizes the importance of a nurturing environment in healthy personality development and how early relationships shape our sense of identity.