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Achievement Quote by T. Berry Brazelton

“A family's responses to crisis or to a new situation mirror those of a child. That is to say, the way a small child deals with a new challenge (for instance, learning to walk) has certain predictable stages: regression, anxiety, mastery, new energy, growth, and feedback for future achievement…” quote by T. Berry Brazelton
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“A family's responses to crisis or to a new situation mirror those of a child. That is to say, the way a small child deals with a new challenge (for instance, learning to walk) has certain predictable stages: regression, anxiety, mastery, new energy, growth, and feedback for future achievement. These stages can also be seen in adults coping with new life events, whether positive or negative.”

T. Berry Brazelton

About This Quote

Source Book: Child Development and Parenting, T. Berry Brazelton, 1995

Adults often repeat childhood coping patterns when facing new challenges, moving through stages like regression, anxiety, mastery, and growth.

In simple terms: Adults mirror child coping stages in new situations.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and guide each stage for healthier adaptation.

Themes

development coping growth regression mastery

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice psychological

When to use this quote

  • career change
  • parenting
  • health recovery
  • relationship transitions

Key Concepts

psychology stage theory resilience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you identify which stage you are in?
  • What supports help move from anxiety to mastery?
A Different Perspective

Stages may overlap or reverse, complicating linear progress.

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