Erikson's Psychosocial Stages Flashcards
What is Erikson’s psychosocial theory of development?
- Erikson’s psychosocial theory emphasizes the impact of social experiences across the lifespan.
- It consists of eight stages, each involving a specific conflict that needs to be resolved for healthy psychological development.
- Successful resolution leads to the development of virtues and strengths.
What is the central conflict in Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust?
Infants (0-1 year) develop trust when caregivers provide consistent care and affection. If care is inconsistent or neglectful, mistrust develops.
Virtue : Hope
Positive Outcome : Trust in caregivers and the world
Negative Outcome: Fear and suspicion
What is the central conflict in Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame/Doubt?
Toddlers (1-3 years) begin to assert their independence by making choices and exploring. If caregivers encourage self-sufficiency, autonomy develops; if caregivers are overly critical, shame and doubt emerge.
Virtue : Willpower
Positive Outcome : Confidence in one’s ability to make decisions
Negative Outcome : Feelings of inadequacy and shame
What is the central conflict in Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt?
Children (3-6 years) begin to initiate activities, set goals, and take on new challenges. Overly controlling parents can instill guilt, while supportive caregivers foster initiative.
Virtue : Purpose
Positive Outcome : Initiative and leadership skills
Negative Outcome : Guilt and fear of taking initiative
What is the central conflict in Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority?
Children (6-12 years) develop a sense of competence by mastering new skills and receiving recognition for achievements. Lack of success or negative feedback leads to feelings of inferiority.
Virtue: Competence
Positive Outcome: A sense of industry, pride in accomplishments
Negative Outcome: Feelings of inferiority and lack of confidence
What is the central conflict in Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion?
Adolescents (12-18 years) explore their personal identity and sense of self. Success leads to a strong sense of identity, while failure causes role confusion and instability.
Virtue : Fidelity
Positive Outcome : Clear sense of identity and direction in life
Negative Outcome : Role confusion, instability in self-concept
What is the central conflict in Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation?
Young adults (18-40 years) seek to form deep, meaningful relationships. Failure to do so can lead to isolation and loneliness.
Virtue : Love
Positive Outcome : Strong, intimate relationships
Negative Outcome : Social isolation, loneliness
What is the central conflict in Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation?
Middle-aged adults (40-65 years) focus on contributing to society and supporting future generations. Lack of accomplishment leads to stagnation and self-absorption.
Virtue : Care
Positive Outcome : Sense of contribution, fulfillment, and productivity
Negative Outcome : Stagnation and self-absorption
What is the central conflict in Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair?
Older adults (65+ years) reflect on their lives. If they are satisfied with their life’s journey, they experience integrity; if they feel regret, they experience despair.
Virtue : Wisdom
Positive Outcome : A sense of peace and acceptance of life
Negative Outcome : Regret, despair, fear of death
What are the key takeaways from Erikson’s theory? (4 points)
- Development is lifelong, with each stage influencing the next.
- Successful resolution of conflicts leads to psychological strengths (virtues).
- Stages build on each other, and failures in earlier stages may impact later development.
- Erikson emphasizes the role of social interactions and relationships in shaping personal growth.
