Erik Erikson was a 20th century psychoanalyst and developmental psychologist who is best known for his theory of psychosocial development, which outlines eight stages that individuals go through as they mature. Erikson believed that each stage of development presents a new challenge or conflict that must be resolved in order to move on to the next stage. These challenges or conflicts are known as psychosocial crises.
According to Erikson, the first stage of development occurs during infancy and is characterized by the conflict between trust and mistrust. During this stage, infants must learn to trust their caregivers in order to feel secure in the world. If they are consistently met with love and care, they will develop a sense of trust in the world and in themselves. If, however, they are consistently met with neglect or abuse, they may develop a sense of mistrust in the world and in others.
The second stage of development occurs during early childhood and is characterized by the conflict between autonomy and shame and doubt. During this stage, children must learn to become independent and take control of their own actions. If they are supported and encouraged in their efforts to explore and learn, they will develop a sense of autonomy. If, however, they are constantly criticized or punished for their actions, they may develop feelings of shame and doubt in their abilities.
The third stage of development occurs during play age and is characterized by the conflict between initiative and guilt. During this stage, children must learn to initiate action and take on leadership roles. If they are encouraged and supported in their efforts to explore and take on new challenges, they will develop a sense of initiative. If, however, they are constantly punished or criticized for their actions, they may develop feelings of guilt.
The fourth stage of development occurs during school age and is characterized by the conflict between industry and inferiority. During this stage, children must learn to work towards goals and develop a sense of accomplishment. If they are supported and encouraged in their efforts to learn and achieve, they will develop a sense of industry. If, however, they are constantly criticized or made to feel inadequate, they may develop feelings of inferiority.
The fifth stage of development occurs during adolescence and is characterized by the conflict between identity and identity confusion. During this stage, adolescents must learn to define themselves and establish a sense of self. If they are able to explore and try out different roles and identities, they will develop a strong sense of identity. If, however, they are not allowed to explore or are constantly criticized or ridiculed for their choices, they may develop feelings of identity confusion.
The sixth stage of development occurs during young adulthood and is characterized by the conflict between intimacy and isolation. During this stage, young adults must learn to form close, meaningful relationships with others. If they are able to form close, intimate relationships, they will develop a sense of connectedness to others. If, however, they are unable to form close relationships or are constantly rejected, they may develop feelings of isolation.
The seventh stage of development occurs during middle adulthood and is characterized by the conflict between generativity and stagnation. During this stage, individuals must learn to contribute to the next generation and leave a positive legacy. If they are able to find meaning and purpose in their work and relationships, they will develop a sense of generativity. If, however, they feel disconnected or unfulfilled, they may experience feelings of stagnation.
The eighth and final stage of development occurs during late adulthood and is characterized by the conflict between integrity and despair. During this stage, individuals must come to terms with the events and experiences of their lives and develop a sense of acceptance and wisdom. If they are able to reflect on their lives with a sense of pride and accomplishment, they will