What occurs during the separation-individuation phase in Mahler's theory?

During the separation-individuation phase in Mahler's theory, the emphasis is placed on the child's emerging independence from the mother. This phase occurs typically between six months and three years of age and is a critical part of the child's development in terms of identity and autonomy. The child starts to recognize themselves as a distinct individual separate from their primary caregiver, which leads to the development of their sense of self.

As the child experiences this separation-individuation, they navigate the balance of maintaining connection with their mother while also exploring their environment and asserting their independence. This process is fundamental in shaping the child's future relationships and self-concept. The ability to separate and individuate successfully contributes to healthy psychological development, allowing the child to form secure attachments later in life.

In contrast, the other options describe different stages or aspects of development that are either earlier in Mahler's model or less focused on the independence that characterizes this particular phase. For instance, fusion with the mother can describe an earlier phase where the child is still enmeshed with the caregiver. Normal autism refers to a different developmental stage where the child is primarily focused on their own internal experiences rather than external interactions. The formation of social bonds typically occurs as a result of successful navigation through earlier phases