George Herbert Mead suggested there are three stages involving role-taking and development for a child. These stages, now referred to Mead’s Stages , include the preparatory, play, and game stage, respectively.
Over time after a baby is born, the child doesn’t have a sense of identity, but changes as he or she grows. This self-development, or the way people’s perceptions of themselves change. A multiple of variables play a part of this process. However, for this article, I want to define the three stages.
Mead’s Stages
Stage One – Preparatory
The preparatory stage lasts from the time we are born until we are about age two.
Within this stage the child mimics The child has no understanding in regards to the meaning behind the words, actions, or tone of voice.
Stage Two – Play
The play stage lasts from about age two to six.
Within this stage the child pretends and still does not adhere to the rules within organized games.
During this stage the child will ‘pretend’ to be mommy or daddy, depending on their observation.
Stage Three – Game
The game stage lasts from seven years to onward. At this stage the child begins to comprehend and adhere to rules of games.
Formalization begins at this stage. While pretending, rather than mirroring their observation, the child will become more independent in their roles. The child begins taking this perspective into account during this stage.
Summary – Mead’s Stages
These identified stages have not been referred to Mead’s stages. During these stages of self development, it is imperative to bring the child up in a healthy environment. The child immediately beings to have input at birth, which will impact their development.
While the child will begin to formalize and choose their self at stage three, that decision will be due to the influence of stages one and two.
You may also want to check my article on Best Way to Learn Critical Thinking.