object constancy

[/ˈɒbdʒɪkt ˈkɒnstənsi/]
noun
permanência do objeto
1. A psychological concept referring to the ability to maintain a stable mental representation of an object or person even when it is not directly perceived or when circumstances change
Object constancy develops in infants around 8 months of age, allowing them to understand that their mother still exists even when she leaves the room.
A permanência do objeto se desenvolve em bebês por volta dos 8 meses de idade, permitindo que entendam que a mãe deles ainda existe mesmo quando ela sai do quarto.
2. In developmental psychology, the cognitive ability to maintain emotional consistency toward a person or object despite changes in circumstances or emotional states
Children who achieve object constancy can maintain their attachment to a caregiver even during periods of separation.
Crianças que desenvolvem permanência do objeto conseguem manter seu apego a um cuidador mesmo durante períodos de separação.
3. In psychoanalytic theory (particularly in object relations theory), the capacity to maintain a consistent internal representation of others as whole beings with both positive and negative qualities
Object constancy in relationships means accepting that loved ones have flaws while still maintaining your emotional bond with them.
A permanência do objeto em relacionamentos significa aceitar que as pessoas amadas têm defeitos enquanto mantém seu vínculo emocional com elas.
Object constancy is a fundamental concept in developmental psychology, particularly in American and European psychological traditions. In Brazil, the term is primarily used in academic, clinical, and educational psychology contexts. The concept is crucial in understanding infant development, attachment theory, and relationship patterns. It gained prominence through Jean Piaget's work on cognitive development and later through object relations theory. Understanding object constancy is essential for therapists working with attachment issues, personality disorders (particularly borderline personality disorder), and childhood developmental disorders.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
object permanencemental representation stabilityrepresentational constancyperceptual constancy
Antonyms / Antônimos
object inconstancysplittingrepresentational instability

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
permanência do objeto
Standard academic term used in psychology and child development contexts
Portugal
constância do objeto / permanência do objeto
Both terms are used in Portuguese psychology literature; 'permanência' is more common in developmental contexts
São Paulo
permanência do objeto
Commonly used in educational and psychological settings
USA English
object constancy
Primary term in American developmental and clinical psychology; sometimes used interchangeably with 'object permanence' though technically distinct

Related Words

object permanenceattachment theoryobject relations theorycognitive developmentsplittingemotional regulationmental representationPiaget

Related Idioms & Phrases

out of sight, out of mind (opposite concept)
holding someone in your heart (related to emotional constancy)
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