THE ACQUISITION OF SPHINCTER CONTROL

The acquisition sphincter control is not simply the learning of new ha bit; it is an important process in the socio-affective development of the young child whose condition represents not only a certain level of neuromuscular, psychomotor and cognitive development but also reflect s his egg maturity. The results of our research show that if this leve l is attained, the child is able, through his own volition and at his own rhythm, to control the sphincter with no particular training. The basis of this decision can be found in his wish to be like adults, to resemble them and to appropriate and progressively interiorize the beh avioral norms represented by the person with whom he shares a stable, regular, warm and intimate relationship. If this difficult process is to succeed, the child needs a strong desire to be autonomous, he needs self esteem, comprehension and the empathetic aid of the adult.