Caring For Your Child’s Psychological Development

PART I

Modern mothers are now not contented with just caring for the physical development of the child. It is now known that the formation of an adult’s mental stability starts from infancy. This four-part article series will help you understand and care for each stages of psychological development based on Erick Erickson’s Eight Stages of Psychosocial Development.

STAGE 1: TRUST VS. MISTRUST (0-18 months)

Previously, it was believed that no matter what you do to an infant, it would not harm him any other way for he will not remember. However, most psychological studies have shown that babies that have not been treated properly as early as age 0 suffer from several issues later in life.

There are two major important things in an infant’s life during this stage: the parent or primary care giver, and consistency. One cannot exist without the other. The parent or caregiver must apply this consistency in many different ways.

1) The mother or primary care giver must be there at all times whenever the baby is in need.

2) They must respond appropriately, and consistently. Whenever the baby cries, do not alternate between ignoring and consoling.

3) If there is a need to hire a caregiver, it must be for a long-term basis. If relatives wish to care for the baby, there should be one primary person who will always see to the needs of the infant. An infant is not a basketball that can be passed around to reach the goal. A changing caregiver does not give the right time for the child to form a bond. This bond is necessary for the child to build trust. A trust that is necessary for an adult to form a lasting and trusting relationship with others.

Parents are concerned over spoiling their babies whenever they carry them or hug them. That is a myth which is disapproved by psychologist. You can never spoil your baby during the first year of his life. You can spoil a child, but not an infant. If you do not respond appropriately, it will cause the baby to think that he is unworthy of attention. You may be delighted that eventually your baby does not cry when he needs attention. It is a cause for concern for the baby is now forming withdrawal syndrome. You will see that the baby will always be passive, not responding appropriately whenever you wish him to. A withdrawn baby does not smile or laugh for he is suffering from acute depression.

Each time you respond to the needs of the baby constantly and appropriately, you help him develop a sense of trust. This will give them a sense of security that the world they will eventually grow in will be stable. If you are worried that your baby will bond more with your hired caregiver, be sure to be there for him when you get home from work. Have your caregiver play a lullaby that you sang yourself whenever she puts the baby to sleep. Record a baby story, call in the middle of work to check up on him and have the caregiver put you on speaker phone. There are many things you can do to make your baby eagerly wait for you when you get home.