Mahler believed that when infants realize that they cannot satisfy their own basic needs,they
A)reject those needs and introject a new set of learned needs.
B)become autistic.
C)seek a symbiotic relationship with their mother.
D)merge their ego with their superego.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mahler's theory of infant development centers around the concept of separation and individuation. According to Mahler, infants initially experience symbiosis with their mothers, wherein they view themselves and their mothers as a single entity. As infants begin to differentiate themselves from their mothers, they experience anxiety and must work through a series of developmental stages to achieve a sense of self. Therefore, the correct option is that they seek a symbiotic relationship with their mother.

Mahler Believed That When Infants Realize That They Cannot Satisfy