What is Object Permanence?
How does object permanence work? It is the belief that things continue to exist even when we cannot see them. Infants use this early developmental milestone to form attachments, manage separation, and build emotional security. This blog explains what object permanence is, when it develops, and why it matters to kids and adults alike.
Defining Object Permanence
Object permanence refers to the concept that things and people exist even when they cannot be seen, heard, or touched. For example, children who understand object permanence know if a toy is hidden under a blanket it has not disappeared, it is simply hidden from sight.
The idea was first introduced by renowned developmental psychologist Jean Piaget. Object permanence was identified by Piaget as a key achievement in the Sensorimotor Stage, which spans from birth to about two years old. This concept is a major developmental milestone in early childhood and is an indication that a baby is developing memories, predicting their environment, and trusting it. Stability and attachment are often facilitated by object permanence.
When Do We Develop Object Permanence?
Object permanence usually emerges during the later stages of Piaget's Sensorimotor Stage, between the ages of 4 and 8 months. This is a sign that a baby's brain is connecting experiences and building memories.
Typical games include peek-a-boo, in which a parent hides their face and the baby learns they'll reappear, or looking for a toy under a pillow. In these behaviors, the child is demonstrating an understanding that there are objects and people beyond their immediate surroundings.
Why Object Permanence Matters
Object permanence is a core building block of emotional and cognitive growth. It helps a child develop memory, predictability, and a sense of safety. This milestone also plays a key role in attachment. Infants who develop object permanence begin to understand that their caregivers are still there for them, even when they leave the room. Bonding is facilitated by this understanding, which eases separation anxiety and builds emotional trust.
Object Permanence and Mental Health
A person's emotional life is shaped by object permanence, not just in infancy. The ability to comprehend this concept helps us build trusting and consistent relationships. When this understanding is disrupted or underdeveloped, it can lead to emotional challenges later in life.
The development of object permanence may be delayed due to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities. In therapeutic settings, similar struggles can show up in symbolic ways. Adults who fear abandonment or struggle in long-distance relationships may be grappling with deeper issues related to object permanence. Through therapy, individuals can build more stable emotional frameworks by reinforcing trust and presence.
Mental Health Therapy and Object Permanence
Object permanence and object constancy are essential concepts in therapy, especially when working through issues related to emotional regulation, trust, and attachment. At Mud Hook Mental Health, our therapy is tailored to support emotional development at every stage of life:
For children: Play therapy and consistent caregiving help build object permanence.
For adults: Therapy can address deep-rooted fears of abandonment or emotional instability tied to early attachment.
Consistent parental presence, reassurance during separations, and predictable routines can help children develop object permanence. As a result of these simple, everyday actions, we are able to build a strong sense of emotional security, which is the basis for long-term resilience.
Key Takeaways on Object Permanence
Infancy may be the beginning of object permanence, but its impact extends far beyond it. From how we form relationships to how we manage emotions, this developmental milestone influences many aspects of mental health.
Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s development or an adult exploring the roots of emotional challenges, understanding object permanence is a powerful step toward self-awareness and healing.
Get in touch with our team to explore your therapy options. At Mud Hook Mental Health, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Start Your Journey to Feeling Better
If you or someone you love could benefit from support related to early development, emotional regulation, or attachment, consider booking a consultation with a licensed therapist at Mud Hook Mental Health.
We offer services in child psychology, developmental assessments, and trauma-informed therapy to help individuals of all ages thrive. Contact us today to take the next step toward growth and healing.