Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Question 1

trust v mistrust

Answer 1

birth - 1 year

• children begin to learn the ability of trusting others based on the consistency of their caregivers
• if trust develops, child gains confidence and security in the world
• not successful = mistrust and fear/anxiety about inconsistent world

Question 2

autonomy v shame & doubt

Answer 2

age 1 -3

• children begin to assert independence
• if children are encouraged and supported in increased independence, they become more independent with confidence and secure in abilities
• not supported in independence = feel inadequate, overly dependent on others (feeling shame/doubt in their abilities)

Question 3

initiative v guilt

Answer 3

age 3 -6

• start to assert themselves more freely ; make up games, initiate activities with others
• with initiative opportunities = children feel secure to lead others and make decisions
• if this opportunity is not available (by control or criticism) then they may feel guilt and become a “follower” and lack self-initiative

Question 4

industry v inferiority

Answer 4

age 6 - puberty

• develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments
• if supported in endeavors, youth feel more confident in ability to reach goals
• if not supported, youth feel inferior and doubt their abilities – might not reach potential

Question 5

Identity v role confusion

Answer 5

transition from childhood to adulthood

• spend time thinking about what they “want to be when they grow up” and look into the future
• if this is hindered, someone will likely have a harder time looking into the future

Question 6

intimacy v isolation

Answer 6

young adulthood

• begin to explore intimate relationships outside family, and if successful this can help develop commitment, safety and care for others
• avoiding intimacy and fearing commitment and relationships can lead to isolation, loneliness, and sometimes depression

Question 7

Generativity v stagnation

Answer 7

middle adulthood

• start careers, settle down, and feel accomplished by raising children/the next generation
• failure to do this, individuals can become stagnant and feel unproductive

Question 8

Ego Integrity v Despair

Answer 8

older adults, senior citizens
- begin to evaluate life and determine if they were successful/productive, and can feel negative if they have not achieved what they want