A well-known developmental psychologist named Erik Erikson proposed a theory of psychosocial development. According to the theory, human beings have eight development stages throughout life. In this post, you will be able to find real-life examples that illustrate the stages of development of this psychologist. Make sure to read everything well to understand how individuals get through these stages and their implications for personal growth.
Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy, 0-1 year)
This stage starts from birth. When an infant just arrived in the world, they cannot do anything for obvious reasons and depend on others for everything. They have no idea about the outside world. They become familiar with the external world as their wakeup hours increase.
As the time goes by, an infant feels comfortable and they are familiar with those who give them these comforts. When they feel good in the environment, trust will start to be developed.
On the other hand, if an infant does not get the comforts that they deserve from the surroundings, they may develop mistrust. In the future, they may always be suspicious about many things. Besides, they may also have anxiety in life.
Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Early Childhood, 1-3 years)
In this stage, the child starts to explore their independence. Aside from that, they also start to develop a sense of autonomy. When their autonomy is supported by their surroundings, such as they are allowed to make choices as long as they are safe, they will gain confidence. Conversely, if they get controlled too much, do not get surprised if they develop shame and doubt. In the end, they will start to question their abilities and will feel that they are not enough.
Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool, 3-6 years)
At this stage, children want to learn well. Their main activity is playing. They love play-acting as they can wear costumes, imitate adult personalities, and pretend to be anything that they want. By doing this activity, they find out what it is like to be like adults. During this development stage, they develop purpose.
When children are allowed and supported by their surroundings to explore their curiosity and creativity, they develop a sense of purpose. However, if they get criticism or restriction instead of encouragement, they may experience guilt, a thing that can hinder their ability to take healthy risks and pursue goals in the next stages.
Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age, 6-12 years)
In this stage, the children start to lose interest in toys and plays. Instead of playing, they prefer doing something productive. As they learn new skills and tasks, they get a sense of competence and industry. They will get confidence if their achievements are recognized and celebrated by their people. In contrast, if they are mocked when they keep failing, they may develop feelings of inferiority which can affect their self-esteem and motivation.
Stage 5: Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence, 12-18 years)
Teenagers try to form a coherent sense of self and establish their social identity. For instance, they may explore various interests, such as participating in clubs, taking part in creative outlets, or joining sports. If they are able to balance between exploring different roles and commitments while at the same time developing a solid identity, they will be considered successful in this stage. If they experience role confusion or have a hard time in establishing their identity due to pressures from their surroundings or a lack of self-exploration, they will get more challenges.
Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adulthood, 18-40 years)
During this stage, young adults start to unite their identity with others. They seek meaningful connections and intimate relationships. For example, they form strong friendships, engage in romantic relationships, or build networks within professional environments.
If the resolution is successful, these young adults will get satisfying, long-term relationships. If they fail to form connections, social isolation and a sense of loneliness may be formed.
Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood, 40-65 years)
Apparently, this Erikson stage of development is marked by concern that these middle-age individuals have for future generations. They want to take care of those who need it and to share their knowledge and experience with them.
Middle-aged people feel satisfied when they can contribute to society in any aspect, such as parenting, mentoring, or meaningful work. The examples in real life may include starting a family, being a volunteer, or working at a place that allows them to use personal values. If they fail to find generativity, stagnation may be caused. In addition, they may also feel a sense of unfulfillment and lack of purpose.
Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood, 65+ years)
In this stage, people reflect on the accomplishments that they have accomplished in their life. Apart from that, they also evaluate the meaning and purpose of their existence. Those who have accomplished a lot and have resolved various challenges experience integrity. They enjoy their past, cherish the wisdom that they have gained in their life, and accept the fact that they are old. For instance, they engage in legacy projects, share their experiences through storytelling, or joining communities.
As for those who struggle with challenges, they may regret it and experience despair. In general, they may feel a sense of hopelessness and bitterness.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Erikson’s stages of development provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the psychological challenges faced by people throughout their lives. All the examples explained above illustrate how people get through and complete these challenges. By being aware that fostering trust, autonomy, initiative, competence, identity, intimacy, generativity, and integrity is important, everyone can support others in their developmental journey well.
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.
