ABSTRACT
IN OUR RESEARCH we have studied separation of children from their mothers from the age of 1 year to 3 years old. The initial reaction is approximately the same for every child of less than 3 years of age: first, a phase of acute distress—it cries, calls for its mother, protests, is very upset, is inconsolable, and weeps. This stage of acute distress, which can have serious consequences, including a genuine state of shock, continues for from one to three weeks, after which the child gives some appearance of having adapted itself to its new situation. Close observation will show that this is not a real adaptation but rather that the child no longer has the strength to struggle, and gives up, although he continues to suffer. If the child is approached at that time, he may cling to the person who approaches him and then begin to weep and cry again. Then, after the separation has lasted more than several weeks or months, little by little the child not only ceases to demand any form of motherly care but may even reject the care which is offered. His state at that time is one of apathy and distress, and introverted lack of interest in the exterior world. During this last period the child becomes incapacitated in his ability to establish relations with other children and adults, and it seems that this incapacity leaves an indelible mark on the subsequent formation of his personality.
