Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Clinical Practice Exam

Rapprochement is a subphase of which child development phase?

1. A. Normal autistic

2. B. Object constancy

3. C. Separation-individuation

4. D. Normal symbiotic

The correct answer is: C. Separation-individuation

Rapprochement is indeed a subphase of the separation-individuation phase in child development, as defined by psychoanalyst Margaret Mahler. In this developmental stage, typically occurring between 15 and 24 months of age, children begin to explore their environment more independently while maintaining a close emotional connection with their caregiver. Rapprochement specifically refers to the process where the child oscillates between seeking independence and returning to the caregiver for reassurance and comfort. This dynamic interaction is essential for the child to formulate a sense of self and establish a secure attachment. While other phases such as the normal autistic phase, object constancy, and normal symbiotic relate to different aspects of early development, they do not capture the essence of the rapprochement process, which emphasizes the balance between autonomy and attachment during the critical period of separation-individuation. Understanding these stages helps professionals recognize the developmental needs and emotional processes of children as they grow.