Overview
This lecture covers Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development, outlining the eight stages individuals experience from infancy to old age, each with unique psychological challenges and potential outcomes.
Erikson’s Eight Stages of Psychosocial Development
Stage 1: Basic Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy, 1–2 years)
- Infants ask if the world is safe and if they can trust others.
- Positive experiences lead to trust; negative ones lead to mistrust and fear.
- The mother is the key figure.
Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt (Early Childhood, 2–4 years)
- Children explore autonomy by discovering their bodies and capabilities.
- Support fosters self-confidence; restriction fosters shame and doubt.
- Both parents are central to development.
Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool Age, 4–5 years)
- Children initiate activities and ask if it is okay to do what they do.
- Encouragement leads to initiative; discouragement leads to guilt.
- The entire family is influential.
Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age, 5–12 years)
- Children seek to show competence and ask if they can succeed in the world.
- Recognition leads to industriousness; criticism leads to feelings of inferiority.
- Teachers and peers are important influences.
Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence, 13–19 years)
- Adolescents explore social roles and undergo identity crises.
- Freedom to explore leads to identity formation; pressure to conform leads to role confusion.
- Peers and role models are crucial.
Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (Early Adulthood, 20–40 years)
- Young adults seek deep relationships and ask if they can love.
- Success results in intimacy; failure leads to isolation.
- Friends and partners are key influences.
Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (Adulthood, 40–65 years)
- Adults look to contribute to society and guide the next generation.
- Success leads to generativity; unresolved issues lead to stagnation.
- Family and colleagues are important.
Stage 8: Ego Integrity vs. Despair (Maturity, 65+ years)
- Older adults reflect on their lives and ask if they have done well.
- Satisfaction results in integrity; regret leads to despair.
- Comparison with others becomes important.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Psychosocial Development — Psychological growth influenced by interaction with social environments through life stages.
- Identity Crisis — A period of uncertainty and reevaluation of one’s role and self-concept.
- Generativity — Concern for guiding and contributing to the next generation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the eight stages and associated key figures for each.
- Reflect on examples from each stage to reinforce understanding.