Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

According to Mahler's theory, which is the correct sequence of stages toward separation individuation?

1. Symbiosis, differentiation, practicing, rapprochement, object constancy

2. Autism, symbiosis, differentiation, practicing, rapprochement, object constancy

3. Rapprochement, autism, symbiosis, differentiation, practicing, object constancy

4. Practicing, differentiation, autism, symbiosis, object constancy, rapprochement

The correct answer is: Autism, symbiosis, differentiation, practicing, rapprochement, object constancy

Mahler's theory of separation-individuation describes the process by which infants develop a sense of self and differentiate themselves from their primary caregiver, typically the mother. The correct sequence begins with a stage known as autism, where the infant is focused on internal stimuli and not yet aware of the external world. This is followed by the symbiotic stage, where the infant experiences a close connection with the caregiver but is still largely dependent and unaware of individual identity. Next is differentiation, where children start to recognize themselves as separate beings. This involves exploring their surroundings while testing the boundaries of independence. Practicing comes after differentiation, whereby the child engages in active exploration and demonstration of emerging skills, leading to increased confidence and autonomy. Following this period of practicing, the child enters rapprochement. In this stage, children want to be close to their caregivers while also asserting their independence, leading to a push-and-pull dynamic in the relationship. The final stage is object constancy, where the child begins to understand that the caregiver remains a stable presence in their life, even when they are not physically present. Understanding this sequence helps recognize the developmental milestones that children navigate in forming their identity and how these stages impact their relationships.