1 rich Libsyn https://www.libsyn.com 90 600 Brenda introduces Erikson’s second stage of development, Autonomy vs. Shame, and highlights the importance of supporting a child’s growing sense of independence. Occurring between the ages of 18 months and 3 years, this stage is a pivotal time when toddlers begin to explore their abilities and assert their own choices.&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp; At this stage, children are just beginning to understand that they are separate from the people around them. This newfound awareness can lead to a desire for autonomy, but it can also bring feelings of shame and doubt when they face challenges or are met with disapproval. Supporting a child at this stage requires a close relationship with the caregivers to ensure the child feels both supported and empowered. &amp;nbsp; Brenda gives a closer look into what therapy looks like during this stage but also gives excellent guidance on communicating during this stage. One crucial element during Stage 2 is rapprochement, which refers to the back-and-forth dynamic between a child and their caregiver. This term describes a child's growing awareness of their independence and their need to return to the caregiver for reassurance. &amp;nbsp; Even if you’re not working with toddlers or preschoolers, understanding the struggles of autonomy vs. shame is important. Issues that arise in Stage 2 can echo into later stages of life. Understanding the potential long-term effects of early developmental challenges can be valuable for therapists working with children, teens, and adults.&amp;nbsp; &amp;nbsp; Connect with Brenda with the link below www.connectiontherapypodcast.com Follow Brenda on Instagram @theconnectiontherapypodcast References Mentioned in this Episode: Anna Freud. (1946). The Psycho-Analytical Treatment of Children. New York, NY: International Univ. Press. Margaret Mahler’s Rapprochement in referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell &amp;amp; Black (1995) Erik Erikson’s Stages of Psychosocial Development referenced in Freud and Beyond: A History of Modern Psychoanalytic Thought by Mitchell &amp;amp; Black (1995) Connection Therapy https://connection-therapy.com <iframe title="Libsyn Player" style="border: none" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/34026287/height/90/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/forward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/88AA3C/" height="90" width="600" scrolling="no" allowfullscreen webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen oallowfullscreen msallowfullscreen></iframe> https://assets.libsyn.com/secure/item/34026287