Mahler’s Separation-Individuation Theory proposes that successful completion of the developmental stages in the first few years of life results in separation and individuation. Mahler describes a series of stages occurring within the first three years of life aimed at the developmental goal of Separation and Individuation. It focuses on the mother-infant interactions within the first three years of life. Separation refers to an internal process of mental separation from the mother, while individuation refers to a developing self concept.

The first stage of development according to this model is Normal autistic stage, which is between birth and the first month. The focus of the infant here is self and not external stimuli. The mother cannot be away from the child in this stage. The second stage in this model is Normal symbiotic stage that runs between 1-5 months. In this stage, a child sees the mother as the main source of need satisfaction. The fulfilment of the infant’s physiological needs becomes intertwined with psychological desires. The mother is expected to ve availabile and exerccise the ability to adapt successfully to the infant’s needs.

The next stage is Separation-Individuation stage, which runs between 5-24 months. In this stage, a significant transition occurs in two overlapping realms. For instance, the infant begins to understand boundaries of the self and views the mother as an individual. Between 5-9 months, the infant’s primary focus begins to transform from internally focused to externally focused. The infant begins to discovering his mother. Also, between 14-24 months, the capacity for separation continues to develop with increased autonomous functions, particularly walking. At age 14-24 months, the child begin to achieve independence even though it is hindered by fear of being abandoned. This is why the child seeks to maintain proximity to the caretaker while engaging in exploration Chicago style