Children Quote by Elliot Greene
““This leads to a pattern in which the child cries out and either gets nothing or gets an insufficient or intermittent response. Then the child becomes exhausted and collapses, either from depleted energy or giving up to conserve a sliver of energy (Lowen, 1971). It is often at this point--collapse--that the caregiver eventually takes care of the child. This "teaches" the child that he or she has no effect on the world and that nurturance comes when they are collapsed.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Child Development, Lowen 1971
Children who receive inconsistent care learn they have no impact, leading to exhaustion and reliance on collapse for nurturing.
In simple terms: Inconsistent care teaches helplessness.
Provide consistent, responsive care.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- childcare
- education
- therapy
- family dynamics
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does consistent responsiveness change a child's outlook?
- What strategies ensure reliable nurturing?
May not account for cultural variations.