Which concept describes understanding that the mother exists as a separate identity even when not present?

• A. Normal Symbiotic Phase
• B. Separation/Individuation Phase
• C. Object Constancy
• D. Rapprochement Stage

Answer: (C)

Object constancy is the understanding that the mother exists as a separate person even when she isn’t present. In Mahler’s framework, this milestone emerges as the child moves through separation-individuation, shifting from a fused sense of self with the mother to an internal representation of the mother that persists despite physical absence. This capacity allows the child to tolerate separations, continue exploring, and maintain a secure attachment through mental imagery of the caregiver. The normal symbiotic phase describes early fusion, while the rapprochement stage is about balancing proximity and autonomy later on; the broader separation-individuation process covers change toward independence, but object constancy specifically captures that ongoing recognition of the mother as a distinct, existing other even when not in view.