Erik Erikson was a German psychologist who developed a theory of psychosocial development. His theory encompasses eight stages, spanning from infancy to adulthood. During each stage, the person will experience a psychosocial crisis that can positively or negatively affect personality development. To achieve healthy development, the person must be able to pass through the psychosocial crisis at each stage. Well, now, let us talk more about the eight stages of psychosocial development by Erik Erikson.
The Eight Stages of Erikson’s Psychosocial Development
According to Erik Erikson, all people go through eight psychosocial crises in their development. If a person can achieve psychosocial adaptation at each stage of development, then it can change his/her character at a later age. Need to note that in developing a specific person, the nature of psychosocial adaptation to conflicts plays a crucial role. The resolution of these crises is cumulative. The way a person adapts to life at each stage of psychosocial development surely will affect how they overcome the next conflict.
Here are the eight stages of psychosocial development by Erik Erikson:
Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (Birth to 18 months old)
The first stage of a theory of psychosocial development by Erikson occurs during infancy (Birth to 18 months old). At this stage, infants will learn to trust or mistrust the world based on the consistency and reliability of their parents or caregivers. If their parents or caregivers provide them with food, love, care, safety, and attention consistently, then infants develop a sense of trust. But if their parents or caregivers fail to provide their needs, the infants may develop a sense of mistrust towards others in their life.
Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (18 months to 3 years old)
The second stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development occurs during early childhood (18 months to 3 years old). At this stage, toddlers begin to assert their independence and autonomy. They realize that they can do several things by themselves. Also, they will explore their environment and make choices. Toddlers at this stage will strive to do things on their own, such as feeding themselves or dressing. According to Erikson, toddlers who come through this stage successfully will have a sense of self-control and confidence. But if toddlers are overly controlled, they may have a sense of shame and doubt in their abilities.
Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (3 to 5 years old)
The third stage is Initiative vs. Guilt, that occurs during the preschool years (3-6 years old). At this stage in psychosocial development, through play or social interactions, children start to assert their power and control what happens. As a parent, you can encourage your child to plan, reach goals, and take responsibility by making sure that they have plenty of chances to interact with others. Through interacting with others, children will have self-confidence, a sense of purpose, and be able to lead others. But children may not be able to take the initiative, may lack ambition, and be filled with guilt if their parents do not support them when they make decisions.
Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (5 to 12 years old)
The fourth stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development takes place during the early school years, from ages 5 to 12. At this stage, children begin to engage in academic and social tasks. Here is where they start learning new skills. And, here is also where their circle of influence increases. Children at this stage will strive to master new skills and accomplishments, such as writing, reading, and social interactions. Through social interactions, children start to develop a sense of pride in their skills and accomplishments. Success will lead to a sense of competence or industry, while failure will result in feelings of inferiority. So, if children succeed, they will be more diligent and believe in their skills. But if children fail and are criticized constantly, they will have a sense of inadequacy and inferiority.
Stage 5: Identity vs. Confusion (12 to 18 years old)
The fifth psychosocial stage takes place during adolescence, approximately from ages 12 to 18. At this stage, teenagers start to explore their identities. Also, they experiment with various roles and relationships. Teenagers at this stage will face the challenge of developing a sense of self. Usually, they will form their identity by examining their beliefs, goals, and values. Teenagers who come through this stage successfully will have a strong sense of self-identity. However, if teenagers fail to come through this stage, then they will face a role confusion. Keep in mind that our sense of personal identity is shaped by our experiences and interactions with other people. And, as we age, this identity assists our beliefs, actions, and behaviors.
Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (18 to 40 years old)
The sixth stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development occurs during young adulthood, from ages 18 to 40. At this stage, young adults begin to establish intimate relationships and form deep connections with others. They strive to develop the capacity for emotional and reciprocal relationships, fostering trust, and intimacy. According to Erikson, it is very important for people to develop close, committed relationships with others. Those who are successful at this stage will be able to form relationships which are enduring and secure. But those who fail to come through this stage, they may feel isolated and lonely.
Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (40 to 65 years old)
The seventh stage occurs during middle adulthood, from ages 40 to 65. At this stage in psychosocial development, middle-aged adults need to create or nurture things which will outlast them. They will focus on making a positive impact on future generations through family, work, and community involvement. Middle-aged adults at this stage will strive for productivity, contribute to society, and nurture the next generation. Those who are successful during this stage will feel that they are contributing to the world, but those who fail to come through this stage will feel unproductive and stagnant, resulting in dissatisfaction and a lack of purpose.
Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair (Over 65 years old)
The final stage of Erikson’s theory of psychosocial development occurs during late adulthood, approximately over 65 years old. At this stage, older adults reflect on their lives. They will evaluate what they have achieved. They seek to discover meaning and satisfaction in their life’s journey. Those who are proud of what they have achieved will feel satisfaction. While those who were not satisfied with what they have not achieved in the previous ages will regret.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
