Rapprochement In Childhood

The superego “perfection principle” developed during the ages of 3-6 years, consist of the ego-ideal and the conscience. Rewarding the child for good behavior enhances the self-esteem the behavior becomes part of the ego-ideal and the child’s internal value system. When the child is punished for bad behavior the conscience is developed and the child learns right from wrong. If morals, ethics, internal ideas, or values are ignored the conscience will create a feeling of guilt in the child.

The individual lack self-confidence and experience doubt and confusion about their role in life. Moreover, the individual will fail to set personal values and goals in life. In addition, the individual difficulties holding on to a long-term relationship. The individual may have underlying fears when entering adulthood. The task may remain unsolved if the parents nurture the child and discourage independence, over discipline or under discipline the child, or if parental rejection occur.

This occurs in the third sub-phase (rapprochement) of Phase III. Rapprochement is critical to the development of the child’s ego. The child become aware of the absence of the mother. If the mother meets the child emotional needs, the child will develop a sense of security. However, if the needs are
Stage one (sensorimotor) occurs between birth and two-year old; the child develops increasing awareness of the external environment. Stage two (preoperational) occurs between 2 and 6-year old this stage is characterized by egocentrism. The child learns to express language and develop understanding of the environment. During the third stage (concrete operation) the child gains the ability to interact with others as egocentrism decrease. Finally, in stage four; formal operations (12-15+yrs) the individual can apply logic, problem solve, and achieve cognitive maturity to perform adult mental