2. 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.
3. 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
4. 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
5. INITIATIVE vs. GUILT
3 – 5 years
Preschoolers learn to initiate tasks
Q Favorite word?
One becomes more independent
6. COMPETENCE/ INDUSTRY vs.
INFERIORITY
6 years – puberty
Child completes tasks themselves
Learning on your own
Important Event:
school
Q What is an inferiority
complex?
7. 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
8. INTIMACY vs. ISOLATION
20s – 40s
Young adults develop intimate relationships
Gaining the capacity for intimate love
Important event: forming love and/or
strong relationships
9. 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
10. INTEGRITY vs. DESPAIR
60s +
Reflection on entire life
Did I contribute to this world?
Sense of fulfillment
11. 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
explanatory