Key Theories Introduced by Françoise Dolto
Françoise Dolto, a distinguished French pediatrician and psychoanalyst, made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of child development. Her theories reshaped how parents, educators, and therapists view and engage with children. Dolto’s work emphasized the child’s inner world, the significance of communication, and the role of unconscious processes in shaping identity and emotional well-being.
One of Dolto’s central theories is that children are subjects in their own right from birth. Contrary to views that saw infants as incomplete or passive, Dolto argued that even newborns possess an unconscious life and a desire to communicate. She believed that from the earliest days, children are active participants in constructing their reality, making sense of the world through both verbal and non-verbal exchanges. This perspective called on adults to listen attentively to children, not only to their words but also to their gestures, expressions, and silences.
Another key concept introduced by Dolto is the idea of the “unconscious body image.” Dolto proposed that a child’s sense of self is closely linked to how they experience and perceive their body, as well as how others respond to it. This body image is not simply a physical awareness but a symbolic structure that influences emotional development, identity formation, and social relationships. Dolto stressed that recognizing and addressing a child’s body image in therapeutic and educational settings can support healthier development and resolve emotional difficulties.
Dolto was also known for advocating truthful communication with children. She argued that children are capable of understanding complex realities, including topics that adults often find difficult to address, such as illness, separation, or death. In her view, withholding the truth or offering misleading explanations could create anxiety and confusion for the child. Instead, Dolto encouraged parents and professionals to engage in honest, age-appropriate dialogue, enabling children to process and integrate challenging experiences more effectively.
Her innovative approach to therapy with children included respecting symbolic expressions. Dolto paid close attention to the symbolic meaning behind children’s words, drawings, and play. She saw these as valuable expressions of unconscious concerns and desires. In the therapeutic context, she emphasized the importance of helping children articulate these symbolic messages, supporting their emotional growth and healing.
Dolto’s practical application of her theories was perhaps best exemplified by the creation of Maison Verte in 1979. This “green house” was not a medical or educational institution but a welcoming space where young children and their caregivers could interact freely under the guidance of trained professionals. The aim was to provide preventive support, helping families navigate developmental challenges before they became serious psychological issues. The Maison Verte model has since inspired similar centers worldwide, promoting early intervention and mental health care.
The Approach at Kintess
At Kintess, we integrate the key theories of Françoise Dolto into our daily practices. We see children as active, competent individuals who deserve to be heard and respected. Like Dolto, we emphasize the importance of honest, empathetic communication, ensuring that children feel secure and valued. Our educators are trained to observe and respond to both verbal and non-verbal cues, recognizing the symbolic meanings behind children’s actions. By fostering an environment that supports emotional expression, self-awareness, and positive identity formation, Kintess helps students develop resilience, confidence, and compassion—core values that reflect Dolto’s enduring legacy.