Chapter 6 Erik Erikson

Erik Erikson

A developmental psychologist known for his theory on psychosocial development across the lifespan.

Identity Crisis

A period of uncertainty and confusion in which a person's sense of identity becomes overwhelmed or challenged.

Trust vs. Mistrust

The first stage of Erikson's psychosocial development, where infants learn to trust their caregivers for basic needs.

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

The second stage of development, where children develop a sense of personal control over physical skills and a sense of independence.

Initiative vs. Guilt

The third stage, where children begin to assert control and power over their environment through directing play and other social interactions.

Industry vs. Inferiority

The fourth stage, which involves children learning to cope with new social and academic demands.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

The fifth stage of psychosocial development during adolescence, where individuals explore their independence and develop a sense of self.

Intimacy vs. Isolation

The sixth stage, which focuses on forming intimate, loving relationships with other people.

Generativity vs. Stagnation

The seventh stage of Erikson's theory, where individuals feel a need to nurture and guide younger generations.

Ego Integrity vs. Despair

The final stage of psychosocial development, focusing on reflecting back on life and feeling a sense of fulfillment or regret.

Basic Strengths

The positive characteristics and beliefs that are derived from successfully resolving crises at each stage of development.

Maldevelopment

A failure to navigate the psychosocial stages successfully, potentially leading to negative personality traits.

Ego Identity

The aspect of our self-perception that reflects one's beliefs about themselves formed during adolescence.

Psychosocial Development

Erikson's theory which posits that personality develops in a series of eight stages throughout the lifespan.

Identity Achievement

A status in which adolescents have explored options and made commitments to an identity.

Moratorium

A status in which adolescents are actively exploring options but have not yet made commitments.

Foreclosure

A status in which adolescents make commitments without having explored options.

Identity Diffusion

A status in which adolescents have neither explored options nor made commitments.

Generativity

A concern for establishing and guiding the next generation, often seen in adulthood.

Life-span Development Psychology

The study of the development that occurs throughout an individual's entire life.