[A very special friend. The imaginary playmate].
Imaginary companions are common in childhood and adolescence. However, little research has been conducted on this phenomenon, and the significance and functions of imaginary companions remain poorly understood. Conceptions about the psychopathological consequences of having an imaginary companion predominate. This contribution provides an overview of the current state of research and an analysis of five different functions a child's or adolescent's imaginary companion may fulfill. Developmental changes in reality-testing, fantasies, and creativity are linked with this phenomenon as are changes in socio-emotional development and in friendship conceptions. The positive, stimulating function of an imaginary companion for further development is emphasized.
Seiffge-Krenke
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Psychologisches Institut, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Abteilung Entwicklungs- und Pädagogische Psychologie, Staudingerweg 9, 55099 Mainz.
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005201:Fantasy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007092:Imagination; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009769:Object Attachment; D010553:Personality Development; D011574:Psychoanalytic Theory