CHAPTER 4

Erik Erikson – Stages of Psychosocial Development

Erik Erikson

A neo-Freudian Adheres to some of Freud’s ideas, but focuses more on

social influences. Stage Theorist Focus on Crisis Resolution

At each stage a crisis must be resolved If the crisis is not resolved, the individual may lack the

positive characteristic in the stage.

TRUST vs. MISTRUST

Birth – 1yr. Needs being met Basic trust develops when needs are met (Attachment) Loving relationship is formed with caregiver Important event: Feeding

AUTONOMY vs. SHAME AND DOUBT

1 – 2 years Learning to do things for oneself Development of physical activities (ex. walking) Q Favorite Word? Important event: toilet training

INITIATIVE vs. GUILT

3 – 5 years Preschoolers learn to initiate tasks Q Favorite word? One becomes more independent

COMPETENCE/ INDUSTRY vs. INFERIORITY

6 years – puberty Child completes tasks themselves Learning on your own Important Event: school Q What is an inferiority complex?

IDENTITY vs. ROLE CONFUSION

Teens – early 20s Teens refine sense of self Test new roles and incorporate them into an identity Q Know anyone that is very different now vs. when

they were pre teen 10,11 and 12? Important events: forming relationships with friends

INTIMACY vs. ISOLATION

20s – 40s Young adults develop intimate relationships Gaining the capacity for intimate love Important event: forming love and/or strong

relationships

GENERATIVITY vs. STAGNATION

40s – 60s Middle-aged discover a sense of contribution to this

world Family and work oftentimes satisfy this desire Supporting and satisfying future generation Important event: Parenting

INTEGRITY vs. DESPAIR

60s + Reflection on entire life Did I contribute to this world? Sense of fulfillment EVERYBODY RIDES THE CAROUSEL intro - YouTube

Evaluation of Erikson’s Theory

Theory does attempt to show development throughout life span

Children and adults may overcome problems that occur during development

Stages are more descriptive than explanatoryMeryl Streep - Everybody Rides The Carousel (1976)

- YouTube2. Erickson's stages of psychosocial development –

YouTube1. Erikson's theory of psychosocial development -

YouTube