1st Edition
by Gertraud Diem-Wille (Author)
Latency: The Golden Age of Childhood
concerns the child’s emotional and cognitive development during the
period of latency. It constitutes a bridge between the first stormy
years of child development and adolescence. The conflicts and libidinous
wishes of early childhood are relegated to the background and become
latent: in general, an emotional and physical stabilization occurs. The
child is attempting to find its place in the world. Accordingly, its
primary interest is no longer in itself or its parents, but in the
outside world. This is particularly manifested in forms of play typical
for this age range, strongly influenced by imitation of the adult world
and reality-oriented. At the same time, the body is explored (and its
awareness is strengthened through numerous games involving movement,
skill and competition). In all societies, this period is when school
begins.
The latency development includes new physical and
intellectual capabilities as well as the development of new ways to deal
with problems of social hierarchy; gradually, tolerance of tensions and
a stabilization of identity are developed as well.
