Erikson's Theory of Psychosocial Development

Overview

• Identifies eight stages of development from birth to death.
• At each stage, individuals encounter different needs and questions.
• Influenced by people around us at each stage.

Stage 1: Basic Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy)

• Key Question: Can I trust the world?
• Development of trust if needs are met by the caregiver, typically the mother.
• Fear leads to doubt and mistrust.

Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Early Childhood)

• Key Question: Is it okay to be me?
• Development of self-confidence through exploration and autonomy.
• Lack of support leads to shame and doubt.
• Parents play a major role.

Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool Age)

• Key Question: Is it okay for me to do what I do?
• Encouragement leads to initiative and interest-following.
• Discouragement leads to guilt.
• Influenced by entire family.

Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age)

• Key Question: Can I make it in this world?
• Recognition leads to industriousness (hard work and competence).
• Negative feedback leads to feelings of inferiority.
• Influences include neighbors and school environment.

Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence)

• Key Question: Who am I?
• Exploration allowed by parents leads to identity formation.
• Pressure to conform leads to role confusion.
• Important influences are peers and role models.

Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood)

• Key Question: Can I love?
• Formation of long-term commitments leads to confidence and happiness.
• Failure to form intimate relationships leads to isolation and loneliness.
• Friends and partners are central influences.

Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood)

• Key Question: Can I make my life count?
• Generativity involves leading the next generation.
• Unresolved conflicts can lead to stagnation and pessimism.
• Influenced by people at home and at work.

Stage 8: Ego Integrity vs. Despair (Old Age)

• Key Question: How have I done?
• Reflection leads to feelings of contentment and integrity.
• Regret leads to despair and bitterness.
• Comparison with mankind.

Background on Erik Erikson

• German-American psychologist, worked with his wife Joan.
• Influenced by Sigmund and Anna Freud.
• Coined the phrase "identity crisis."
• Served as a professor at Harvard and Yale despite lacking a bachelor's degree.

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