6 major childhood crises according to a psychologist

The word "crisis" in translation from Greek means "decision" or "turning point". Scientists emphasize that a crisis is a special period in a person's life, accompanied by serious psychological changes. Although a crisis may seem destructive, in fact, without it personal growth is impossible. Through crises, a person is able to rise to a new level of understanding, awareness and responsibility.

Crises accompany a person from birth, but they occur more frequently in childhood than in adulthood. It is believed that every child must go through six developmental crises before becoming an adult: newborn crisis, crisis at 1 year, 3 years, 6-7 years, 10-12 years, 13-16 years.

Interestingly, these stages of adulthood were quite different a century ago. For example, 14-year-olds were previously starting families and taking responsibility for the next generation. Modern people become adults around the time they finish their higher education.

Let's take a look at what crises occur in children, how they are characterized, what they are for, and how parents should behave when each crisis occurs.

Crisis of the newborn

The first crisis in the life of a child, also the shortest. This period is necessary for the adaptation of the infant to the outside world after the cozy mother's belly. During this crisis, emotions and the first reactions to the environment are formed. It passes quietly and ends by the age of three months.

1 year

The second crisis occurs at 1 year of age. It is associated with physiological changes and the child's becoming independent. The child realizes his existence, independence and begins to express his desires. It is important to give him the opportunity to choose for himself what to do.

3 years old

This crisis can begin at 2.5 or 3.5 years of age. The child seeks to do everything independently and actively explore the world. It is important not to forbid him this, but to help him learn new skills safely. At this time, the need for communication with other children plays a decisive role.

6-7 years

Associated with the beginning of schooling. The child receives additional freedom and responsibilities. Restrictions imposed by the school may cause emotional reactions. It is important to support the child and allow freedom where possible.

10-12 years

The crisis is relatively calm. The child is seeking a balance between his or her own opinions and collective attitudes. It is important for parents to take an interest in the child's opinions and respect their views.

13-16 years

The adolescent crisis depends on the successful passage of the previous stages. The adolescent seeks freedom and freedom from hyper-parenting. It is important for parents to give freedom by explaining the boundaries of what is allowed.

Mutual understanding with children is the key to successfully overcoming childhood crises.