Article
Mirror Stage
The mirror stage is a concept in psychoanalytic theory, introduced by Jacques Lacan, describing the moment when an infant first recognizes their own reflection. This recognition marks the formation of the "I" and is foundational to the development of self-identity and subjectivity.
Key Features
- Occurs between 6 and 18 months of age, when a child recognizes themselves in a mirror or similar reflective surface.
- Represents the turning of oneself into an object that can be viewed from outside, laying the groundwork for self-consciousness and self-image.
- Lacan later expanded the concept to represent a permanent structure of subjectivity, not just a developmental stage.
Relevance to Narcissism and Erotic Writing
- The mirror stage is closely linked to narcissism, as it is the origin of self-regard and the pleasure of seeing oneself as an object.
- In erotic writing, the mirror stage can be used to explore themes of self-observation, self-objectification, and the interplay between subject and object.