The Child's Own Story

"The Child's Own Story" is a psychoanalytic concept developed by Donald Winnicott, describing how a child's sense of self and view of the world are shaped by early experiences with caregivers. It suggests that children create an internal narrative or "story" based on how they are parented, which influences their emotional development and self-perception. When caregivers are responsive and nurturing, children develop a coherent and positive story about themselves. Conversely, inconsistent or neglectful care can lead to a fragmented or negative perception, affecting their ability to form healthy relationships and understand their identity later in life.