The Mirror Stage (Jacques Lacan)

The Mirror Stage, by Jacques Lacan, describes a developmental phase around six months old when a child first recognizes their reflection in a mirror as their own image. This moment fosters a sense of self-identity, as they begin to see themselves as a unified individual rather than a collection of parts. It marks the beginning of the child's understanding of their separate existence from others, forming the basis for their ego and self-awareness. This stage is crucial for the development of identity and influences how they perceive themselves and others later in life.