The Mirror Stage (theory)

The Mirror Stage is a concept introduced by psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan. It describes a phase in early childhood development, typically around 6 to 18 months, when a child first recognizes their reflection in a mirror. This recognition leads to a sense of self-awareness and identity, as the child begins to see themselves as an individual separate from their surroundings. However, this realization can also cause feelings of alienation, as the image in the mirror represents an idealized self that the child may struggle to achieve, highlighting a gap between their self-image and reality.