Mirror Stage
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
Infants (6-18 months) see a complete image of themselves in the mirror, generating an illusory sense of mastery (Imago), thereby forming the "ego" (Ego). However, this "ego" is essentially alienated, a misrecognition built upon an external mirror image.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
- Narcissism deconstruction: We spend our lives maintaining that perfect image in the mirror (the persona on social media). But that image is not you; it is merely your reflection.
Anchor fast decisions
Lacan proposed that around 6-18 months, infants recognize their complete self-image in the mirror, achieving a unified identification of the "I" from a fragmented bodily experience, but also falling into an imaginary misrecognition.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/3Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mirror_stageverified
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