After 14 months, Mahler's development of object constancy refers to what ability?

After 14 months, Mahler's development of object constancy refers to what ability?

• A. Recalling the mother despite her absence
• B. Physical independence from caregiver
• C. Verbal expression of needs
• D. Fine motor skill refinement

Answer: (A)

Object constancy is the child’s ability to remember and expect that the caregiver continues to exist even when not in sight. By around 14 months in Mahler’s framework, the child develops a mental representation of the mother and understands she will return after separations, which supports seeking behavior and feeling secure when apart. This is distinct from simply becoming physically independent, verbally expressing needs, or refining fine motor skills, which involve other areas of development.

Object constancy is the child’s ability to remember and expect that the caregiver continues to exist even when not in sight. By around 14 months in Mahler’s framework, the child develops a mental representation of the mother and understands she will return after separations, which supports seeking behavior and feeling secure when apart. This is distinct from simply becoming physically independent, verbally expressing needs, or refining fine motor skills, which involve other areas of development.