Erik Erikson’s Personality Theory Psychosocial Development throughout the Life Span

Overview of the Theory Erikson believed that at each stage in life, individual’s would face a specific challenge While facing the challenge, individual’s may struggle personally and/or socially Each person will ultimately follow one of the two life stage options

Trust vs. Mistrust Infant’s basic needs are either met or not met by the parents Parents are expected to provide food, caring, comfort Infants learn whether or not people are reliable

Autonomy vs. Shame Children begin to explore surroundings (if Trust is developed, use parents as a secure base) Begin to develop own interests and try to do things on their own Feeding Dressing Bathroom Develop either self-sufficiency or a sense of shame about own abilities

Initiative vs. Guilt Undertaking, planning and executing a task May feel guilt when initiative does not produce desired results Accomplishing tasks on own Testing limits/boundaries Become more autonomous if plans are supported, but may develop guilt if parents or caregivers dismiss their plans

Industry vs. Inferiority Development of self- confidence Industry = hard working, sacrificing play for work Inferiority = ridiculed or punished for lack of ability Development of individual talents Not doing so can lead to poor self-esteem

Identity vs. Role Confusion Transition from childhood to adulthood Development of personal identity, beliefs, values May test personal limits “Identity Crisis” Often a conflict between personal desires and the expectations of others

Intimacy vs. Isolation Blend own identities with those of friends or loved ones Development of long- term relationships Friendships Marriage Inability to develop close relationships may lead to a feeling of isolation

Generativity vs. Stagnation Generativity – establishing and guiding the next generation Contributing to society Sense of productivity and accomplishment Stagnation = dissatisfaction with the lack of personal productivity “What have I contributed?”

Integrity vs. Despair Contemplation of personal accomplishments Reflect upon one’s own life Integrity = “I’ve had a successful life” Despair = “I haven’t done what I’ve wanted to do”