This is a short series examining the intersection of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs with both childhood development and neurodivergence.
Hierarchy of Needs Intersects Childhood Development
Through play, exploration, & comfort seeking, children develop each level into a structure that protects their “inner child” as they grow.
Children naturally test and explore their environment. Relationships are tested too, and each lesson becomes a part of this structure that will come to help a child define themselves and their unique needs.
A childhood where needs are met provides a strong structure that protects the inner child and allows it to express and defend itself freely
A strong sense of self , the ability to freely give and take, self defense (as necessary) are all aspects of a sound structure. Caregivers provided a balanced combination of boundaries, guidance, and freedom.
Structures with gaps leave the inner child vulnerable. This makes an adult dependent on adrenal reactions to defend or evade perceived attacks unless rebuilding takes place
Adults with incomplete structures can end up with complex PTSD, depression and anxiety, as well as dysfunctional relationships, anxious/avoidant/combination attachment styles, and/or addictions to try to patch these holes.
An individual’s identity is most vulnerable to attack in this condition, leading to a gradient of erratic and sometimes dangerous behaviors.
Repair is possible. Many therapies provide healing for the inner child, and certain treatments alleviate the compulsive symptoms of C-PTSD.
For some people all they need are healthy, secure relationships later in life to provide enough support for the rebuilding process to take place.