Erikson's Psychological Stages

Question 1

The process

Answer 1

Identify 8 stages which a healthily developing human should pass from infancy to late adulthood (Each stage = person confronts and masters new challenges)

Question 2

1) Trust vs. Mistrust (Infant)

Answer 2

Important Events: Feeding

Overarching Question: “Is the world predictable and supportive?”

Question 3

2) Autonomy vs. Shame (Toddler)

Answer 3

Important Events: Potty training

Overarching Question: “Am I self-sufficient or must I rely on others?”

Question 4

3) Initiative vs. Guilt (Pre-schooler)

Answer 4

Important Events: Exploration

Overarching Question: “Am I good or bad?” “Will I feel guilty for trying new things?”

Question 5

4) Industry vs. Inferiority (Grade-Schooler)

Answer 5

Important Events: School

Overarching Question: “Am I successful or worthless? How do I compare to others?”

Question 6

5) Identity vs. Role Confusion (Teenager)

Answer 6

Important Events: Social relationships

Overarching Question: “Who am I? What’s my place in society?”

Question 7

6) Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adult)

Answer 7

Important Events: Relationships

Overarching Question: “Am I able to become close with others, but still maintain my sense of self?”

Question 8

7) Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle-aged)

Answer 8

Important Events: Work and family

Overarching Question: “Am I able to give love and attention beyond myself? Have I nurtured the future generation?”

Question 9

8) Integrity vs. Despair (Old Adult)

Answer 9

Important Events: Reflection on life

Overarching Question: “How do I deal with the end of my career? Have I left my mark? Am I still useful? How do I cope with loss?”