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8.10.2011

How Trust is Developed - Erik Erikson's Trust vs. Mistrust

Trust versus Mistrust is the first stage of Erik Erikson's theory of Psychosocial Development. Newborn babies are completely dependent on others for every need as they grow and change, taking in the new world around them, absorbing all sensations and stimuli. For each and every need that is met and fulfilled (cries of hunger, wetness, discomfort, fear) - a thousand times a day, baby learns that cries will be heard and her distress will be resolved.
Ultimately, these repetitive acts of care, attention, met needs - love - form attachment, the glue for brain development, synaptic connection, and a building block for more complex relationships. 
For babies that are not cared for, or worse, harmed, this stage of Trust versus Mistrust is impaired and remains undeveloped (referred to as a psychic injury in psychotherapy). Attachment is critical for healthy and fully functioning relationships as a child moves through maturing phases of toddlerhood, latency, adolescence and adulthood. Can adults experience meaningful intimacy if they were neglected or harmed during those critical early years of formation? Yes!
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~bent elbows are stronger than straight arms~

carlsbadcounseling@roadrunner.com