In Mahler's stages of separation-individuation, a child who alternates between playing away from her mother and returning for reassurance is best described as being in which stage?

In Mahler's stages of separation-individuation, the stage that involves a child alternating between exploring the environment and returning to the mother for reassurance is known as the rapprochement stage. During this phase, which typically occurs around 15 to 24 months of age, the child begins to realize their own individuality while still seeking to maintain a close connection with their caregiver. This behavior reflects a balance between the desire for autonomy and the need for emotional support.

Children in the rapprochement stage exhibit both independence as they venture away from their primary attachment figure and a recognition of their dependency when they return for comfort and validation. This back-and-forth dynamic is essential for the development of a healthy sense of self, as it allows the child to both explore and maintain secure attachment relations.