Stages of Development in Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory

Question 1

Trust vs. Mistrust-Infancy
(Birth-18 months)

Answer 1

To develop a basic trust in the parenting figure and to be able to generalize it to others.

Question 2

Autonomy vs Shame and doubt-Early Childhood
(18 months-3 years)

Answer 2

To gain some self-control and independence within the environment

Question 3

Initiative vs guilt-Late Childhood
(3-6 years)

Answer 3

To develop a sense of purpose and the ability to initiate and direct their own activities

Question 4

Industry vs inferiority-School Age
(6-12 years)

Answer 4

To achieve a sense of self-confidence by learning, competing, performing successfully, and receiving recognition from significant others, peers, and acquaintances

Question 5

Identity vs role confusion-Adolescence
(12-20 years)

Answer 5

To integrate the tasks mastered in the previous stages into a secure sense of self

Question 6

Intimacy vs isolation-Young Adulthood
(20-30 years)

Answer 6

To form an intense, lasting relationship with or a commitment to another person, cause, institution, or creative effort

Question 7

Generativity vs stagnation-Adulthood
(30-65 years)

Answer 7

To achieve the life goals established for oneself while also considering the welfare of future generations

Question 8

Ego Integrity vs Despair-Old Age
(65 years – death)

Answer 8

To review one’s life and derive meaning from both positive and negative events while achieving a positive sense of self-worth