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Erik Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development explains how individuals grow and change throughout their lifespan, focusing on the interaction between psychological needs and social experiences. He proposed eight distinct stages, each marked by a specific conflict or crisis that must be resolved to develop a healthy personality. Successful resolution of each stage leads to the development of strengths such as trust, autonomy, initiative, and identity, while failure can result in difficulties in later stages. Erikson’s theory emphasizes that development continues throughout life and that social relationships play a crucial role in shaping who we become.
2. Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development
2.1. Table: Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development
|
Stages |
Life stage and age |
Significant relation |
Psychosocial virtues |
Maladaptations & Malignancies |
|
Trust vs Mistrust |
Infant (0- 11/2) |
Mother |
Hope, faith |
Sensory distortion – Withdrawal |
|
Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt |
Toddler (1-3) |
Parents |
Will, determination |
Impulsivity - Compulsion |
|
Initiative vs Guilt |
Preschool (4-6) |
Family |
Purpose, courage |
Ruthlessness – Inhibition |
|
Industry vs Inferiority |
School age (7-12) |
Neighborhood and school |
Competence |
Narrow virtuosity – inertia |
|
Identity vs Role- confusion |
Adolescent (12-18) |
Peer groups, role models |
Fidelity, loyalty |
Fanaticism - Repudiation |
|
Intimacy vs Isolation |
Young adult (19-40) |
Partners, Friends |
Love |
Promiscuity – Exclusivity |
|
Generativity vs Stagnation |
Adulthood (41-65) |
Household, Workmates |
To make be, to take care of |
Overextension – Rejectivity |
|
Integrity vs Despair |
Mature adult (65 +) |
Mankind or “my kind” |
Wisdom |
Presumption – Despair |
Source: Adapted from Erikson (1959)
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