Anna Freud’s developmental lines are a framework for describing how children grow from completely dependent newborns to independent adults.

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They chart progress across 6 paths of development. Each line highlights the gradual shift from immature to mature adaptations, allowing therapists to assess where development is on track or delayed.

From Dependency to Emotional Self-Reliance (0–18 years)
This line traces the child’s move from total reliance on caregivers towards emotional and physical independence. It highlights how we grow and hopefully manage the separation from our parents.

From Suckling to Rational Eating (0–3 years)
Here, feeding moves from a reflexive breast sucking, to conscious, controlled eating. This line reflects both physiological maturity and the development of self-regulation in relation to basic bodily needs.

From Wetting and Soiling to Bladder and Bowel Control (1–4 years)
Toilet training illustrates the shift from instinctive pooing and peeing to socially appropriate control. Success in this line is tied to autonomy, mastery, and a sense of competence.

From Irresponsibility to Responsibility in Body Management (2–6 years)
This line maps how children learn to dress, wash, and care for themselves. It represents the taking on of personal responsibility and pride in physical independence.

From Play to Work (3–12 years)
Play evolves into structured, goal-directed activity. This developmental line underscores the child’s growing capacity for persistence, concentration, and achievement, preparing for academic and later professional roles.

From Egocentricity to Companionship (3–12 years)
Social development progresses from solitary or parallel play to genuine reciprocity with peers. The line captures the growth of empathy, cooperation, and the ability to sustain friendships.

Anna Freud’s developmental lines remain a practical tool for child therapists, helping them to locate a child’s developmental strengths, identify delays, and to know where the therapy is needed.

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