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→Prematurity of Infant
In order to resolve this [[aggressivity|aggressive tension]], the [[subject]] [[identifies]] with the [[image]]; this [[identification|primary identification]] with the [[ounterpart]] is what forms the [[ego]].
The moment of [[identification]], when the [[subject ]] assumes its [[image ]] as its own, is described by [[Lacan ]] as a moment of jubilation (,<ref>{{E, }} p. 1), </ref> since it leads to an [[imaginary ]] sense of [[mastery]]:
<blockquote>[the child's] joy is due to his imaginary triumph in anticipating a degree of muscular co-ordination which he has not yet actually achieved.<ref>{{L}} 1951b. "[[Works of Jacques Lacan|Some Reflections on the Ego]]," ''Int. J. Psycho-Anal.'', Vol. 34, 1953: 15; {{S1}} p. 79</ref></blockquote>
However, this jubilation may also be accompanied by a depressive reaction, when the [[child ]] compares his own precarious sense of [[mastery ]] with the omnipotence of the [[mother]].<ref>{{Ec}} p. 345; {{S4}} p. 186</ref>
===Ideal Ego===This [[identification ]] also involves the [[ideal ego]] which functions as a promise of future [[gestalt|wholeness ]] which sustains the e~ [[ego]] in [[time|anticipation]].
However, the [[mirror stage]] also has an important [[symbolic dimension]]. The [[symbolic order]] is present in the figure of the adult who is carrying or supporting the [[infant]]. The moment after the [[subject]] has jubilantly assumed his [[image]] as his own, he turns his head round towards this adult, who represents the [[big Other]], as if to call on him to ratify this [[image]] (Lacan.<ref>{{L}} ''[[Seminar X|Le Séminaire. Livre X. L'angoisse, 1962-3: seminar ]]''. Unpublished. Seminar of 28 November 1962). </ref>
===Narcissism===