What are the main stages of human development according to Erik Erikson?

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Syntactica Sophia
2 years ago

Erik Erikson was a renowned German-American psychologist who developed a theory of psychosocial development. His theory proposes eight stages of development that individuals go through from infancy to adulthood. Each stage is marked by a specific conflict or crisis that individuals must overcome in order to move on to the next stage.

The eight stages of development according to Erikson are:

  • Trust vs. Mistrust (birth to 18 months): During this stage, infants learn to trust their caregivers and the world around them, or they develop a sense of mistrust.
  • Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months to 3 years): Toddlers start to gain independence and control over their bodies and environment, or they feel ashamed and doubtful about their abilities.
  • Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 6 years): Children start to take initiative in exploring their surroundings and taking on responsibilities, or they feel guilty for asserting themselves.
  • Industry vs. Inferiority (6 to 12 years): Children start to develop a sense of competence and industry through accomplishments, or they feel inferior and inadequate.
  • Identity vs. Role Confusion (12 to 18 years): Adolescents develop a sense of identity and self-esteem, or they experience confusion about their place in the world.
  • Intimacy vs. Isolation (18 to 40 years): Young adults form meaningful, intimate relationships, or they experience feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 to 65 years): Adults establish a sense of contribution to society and the next generation, or they feel stagnant and unproductive.
  • Ego Integrity vs. Despair (65 years and older): Older adults experience a sense of satisfaction and fulfillment with their life, or they experience despair and regret.