Erik Erikson's Stages of Development

Question 1

Trust versus mistrust (0–18 months):

Answer 1

Attachment to a caregiver is important at this stage. A child must develop sufficient trust with the caregiver in order to explore the world. Mothers and fathers need to be warm, loving, and attentive to basic needs.

Question 2

Autonomy versus shame and doubt (18 months to 3 years):

Answer 2

Children start to develop a sense of confidence in their abilities to explore and to do things for themselves. Children begin to understand that they can control their behavior.

Question 3

Initiative versus guilt (3–5 years):

Answer 3

Children move from simple self-control, as in the previous stage, to taking initiative in play and in various tasks. Imaginary play and choosing activities are illustrated at this stage.

Question 4

Industry versus inferiority (6–12 years):

Answer 4

This stage covers the elementary school years, so know it well. Success or failure in school has lasting effects on self-efficacy and sense of adequacy. Children learn a sense of industry if they are recognized for various activities (e.g., painting, reading).

Question 5

Identity versus role confusion (13–18 years):

Answer 5

This stage covers the middle school and high school students. People develop a sense of identity, sense of self, and strong ego during this time. Peers, role models, and social pressures are factors associated with this stage.

Question 6

Intimacy versus isolation, generativity versus stagnation (or selfishness), and integrity versus despair

Answer 6

The last few stages covered are important to review. However, the age ranges covered by these stages typically fall beyond the target population of school psychologists.