12.1 Erikson's Psychosocial Theory

Erikson's psychosocial theory explores how social interactions shape our identity throughout life. From infancy to old age, we face challenges that help us develop key virtues. These stages are crucial for understanding how we grow emotionally and socially.

The theory outlines eight stages, each with a unique crisis to overcome. By resolving these conflicts, we gain important skills like trust, autonomy, and identity. This framework helps us grasp the complexities of human development and relationships.

Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Overview of Erikson's Theory

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• Psychosocial development theory proposed by Erik Erikson emphasizes the role of social interactions and relationships in shaping an individual's personality and sense of self throughout the lifespan
• Eight stages of development each characterized by a specific psychosocial crisis or conflict between two opposing forces that must be resolved for healthy development
• Psychosocial crisis at each stage presents a challenge or dilemma that the individual must confront and resolve to develop a specific virtue or ego strength
• Ego strength refers to the positive outcome or personality trait that emerges from successfully resolving the psychosocial crisis at each stage (trust, autonomy, initiative, industry, identity, intimacy, generativity, integrity)

Early Childhood Stages

Trust vs. Mistrust (Birth to 18 Months)

• Trust vs. mistrust first stage of psychosocial development occurs during infancy
• Infants develop a sense of trust when their basic needs are consistently met by responsive and nurturing caregivers
• Mistrust can develop if infants experience inconsistent, unreliable, or neglectful care leading to feelings of insecurity and suspicion
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of hope and a sense of security in relationships (secure attachment)

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 Months to 3 Years)

• Autonomy vs. shame and doubt stage focuses on the development of independence and self-control
• Toddlers begin to assert their will and desire for autonomy through exploration, choice-making, and self-care activities (feeding, dressing)
• Shame and doubt can arise if children are overly criticized, controlled, or not given opportunities to assert their independence
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of will and a sense of self-confidence in one's abilities

Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 5 Years)

• Initiative vs. guilt stage involves the development of initiative, purpose, and the ability to plan and carry out activities
• Children become more assertive, curious, and imaginative, engaging in play and social interactions with others
• Guilt can emerge if children are made to feel that their initiatives or desires are wrong or inappropriate
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of purpose and a sense of direction in pursuing goals

School Age and Adolescence Stages

Industry vs. Inferiority (6 to 11 Years)

• Industry vs. inferiority stage focuses on the development of competence and mastery in school, social interactions, and other areas of life
• Children strive to develop skills, learn new things, and gain recognition for their achievements
• Inferiority can arise if children experience failure, negative comparisons to others, or a lack of encouragement and support
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of competence and a sense of pride in one's abilities and accomplishments

Identity vs. Role Confusion (12 to 18 Years)

• Identity vs. role confusion stage involves the formation of a coherent sense of self and identity
• Adolescents explore various roles, values, and beliefs in an effort to establish a clear sense of who they are and what they want to become
• Role confusion can occur if adolescents struggle to integrate different aspects of their identity or face conflicting expectations from others
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of fidelity and a stable sense of identity

Adulthood Stages

Intimacy vs. Isolation (18 to 40 Years)

• Intimacy vs. isolation stage focuses on the development of close, intimate relationships with others
• Young adults seek to form deep, meaningful connections with romantic partners, friends, and family members
• Isolation can occur if individuals struggle to establish or maintain close relationships, leading to feelings of loneliness and disconnection
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of love and the ability to form committed, loving relationships

Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 to 65 Years)

• Generativity vs. stagnation stage involves a sense of contributing to the next generation and leaving a positive legacy
• Middle-aged adults often focus on nurturing and guiding younger individuals, whether through parenting, mentoring, or community involvement
• Stagnation can occur if individuals feel unproductive, uninvolved, or unable to make a meaningful contribution to others
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of care and a sense of fulfillment in supporting and nurturing others

Integrity vs. Despair (65 Years and Older)

• Integrity vs. despair final stage of psychosocial development involves reflecting on one's life and coming to terms with the choices made
• Older adults who feel a sense of fulfillment, meaning, and coherence in their life experiences develop a sense of integrity
• Despair can arise if individuals look back on their lives with regret, bitterness, or a sense of unfulfilled potential
• Successful resolution of this stage leads to the development of wisdom and a sense of acceptance and satisfaction with one's life journey