Physiological independence and autonomy
Physiological autonomy is a remarkable journey that begins with the fusion of the ovum and sperm during fertilization; it marks the beginning of a new and distinct organism. Individuals acquire their unique identity through the developmental process, shaped by genetic factors and influenced by environmental interactions. Aging can be when individuals attain various forms of independence, such as cardiorespiratory, nutritional, motor, communicative, emotional, and socioeconomic independence.
After birth, the cardiorespiratory independence phase reaches its completion in the first few minutes of life. Consequently, the cardiovascular system begins pumping this oxygenated blood throughout the growing body, sustaining its energy needs.
When newborn babies scream for the first time after birth, they call out to their parents and announce: now I can breathe on my own. This independence is a treasured gift for parents.
During early infancy, infants rely entirely on breast milk or formula for their nutrition. However, as they grow and develop, they begin to explore solid foods and gradually transition to a more varied diet. Nutritional independence is achieved when children can self-feed, demonstrate a willingness to try different types of foods, and have developed the motor skills necessary for eating independently, such as using utensils.
- Communication autonomy in infants and children begins to emerge through various forms of expression, including gestures, mimicking, body language, sound production, and speech. These modes of communication play pivotal roles in the early stages of language development and enable infants and children to interact with others and convey their needs, desires, and emotions.
- Emotional independence in children refers to their growing ability to regulate and manage their emotions, develop self-awareness, and rely less on external sources for emotional support and validation. It involves the gradual development of emotional resilience, self-confidence, and a healthy sense of autonomy.
As children grow and develop, they go through different stages of emotional dependence and independence. In the early years, infants and young children rely heavily on their caregivers to meet their emotional needs and provide security. They seek comfort, reassurance, and guidance from adults to effectively navigate and regulate their emotions.
During adolescence, young individuals may start seeking part-time jobs or engaging in activities that foster financial responsibility and independence. This period often marks the transition from being financially dependent on parents or guardians to becoming more self-reliant. It is a time of exploration and growth, where individuals develop their skills, pursue higher education, or enter the workforce.
By engaging in philosophical reflection, one can explore the intricate dynamics of human existence, including the concept of dependence. Philosophical reflection allows individuals to explore diverse perspectives and challenge their assumptions about the nature of dependence. Upon such contemplation, one might argue that human dependence ultimately ceases to exist with death.
