A normal stage in the development of children under the age of 5, the feeling of omnipotence is still too often misunderstood by most parents. Even though it is discussed at the pediatrician’s office, in the office, or even sometimes in the family, few parents know how to identify it. However, it is easier to manage and educate your child by analyzing the psychology of the moment. Let’s decipher this unavoidable phase in your child’s life.
Page Contents
An omnipotence which is frightening
Yes, it is true, the expression “feeling of omnipotence” does not sound very pleasant to the ear. It must be said that in adulthood, what we call “omnipotence” clearly refers to a behavioral disorder, a kind of obsessive neurosis close to psychopathy or sociopathy.
But in the child of less than 5 years, it is only a phase of awakening and awareness of the physical and behavioral limits related to the world around him. It is therefore only of concern if it lasts over time. But rest assured, these cases are extremely rare.
The feeling of omnipotence: the debate
Obviously, many scientists, sociologists, child psychiatrists and even philosophers have studied this feeling in children.
For some, like Freud or Nietzsche, this stage is “simply” that of the development of the “me”, of the construction of the own identity and of the assertion of oneself. For others, on the other hand, it is essentially a fantasy linked to the anal phase of development. And at this stage, the debate is still not closed…
How is the feeling of omnipotence translated?
Already, it is necessary to know that this feeling of omnipotence is translated in two ways: on the one hand, your child will change his attitude towards you, your husband, his grandparents or more generally towards the outside world. On the other hand, it is the relationship that he will have with himself that will change, thinking that the simple fact of wishing is doing.
The classic stage of this evolution is often marked by a change in tone. The child will tend to feel invulnerable and will not think about the repercussions of his actions.
That’s why, as parents, you need to instill in your child the basics of parental authority and respect for parents. Even if you are not the type to tighten the screw at every turn, you should know that, overall, a little guidance can prevent your child from becoming one of those “ill-behaved and shameless children” that society abhors!
Omnipotence in your child’s development
For those of you (a little paranoid!) who are worried that your child will turn into an obsessive neurotic as a result of this behavioral phase, it is worthwhile to clarify a few things: first of all, you should know that just because your little one will have tested or challenged your authority between the ages of 2 and 3 years old does not mean that he or she will become a delinquent as a teenager or as an adult! Otherwise, we would all be delinquents to some extent.
What’s more, this stage also doesn’t mean that your child will have a lifelong predisposition to behavioral problems. Again, this phase of development is normal and common, and is not a sign of future mental deterioration. And after all, even if you don’t remember it, you’ve been there too!
