Is a common term, used to describe a state in which an individual does not need to depend on another.

Normal developmental milestones such as weaning, walking, talking, etc. mark points at which young children achieve greater levels of independence, autonomy and self-regulation. 

Throughout the four planes of development, children and young adults continuously seek to greater and greater levels of independence until they reach the point of complete dependence - "maturity”. 

It is as if the child says, "Help me to help myself.”