CHAPTER 9: ERIK ERIKSON POST-FREUDIAN THEORY

- extended Freud’s infantile developmental stages into adolescence, adulthood, and old age.

Trust vs. Mistrust

Key question: Can I trust the world?

Babies learn to trust others (especially caregivers) if their basic needs (like food, comfort) are met. If not, they may develop mistrust.

Virtue: Hope – belief that good things will happen.

(Infancy)

Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt

Key question: Can I do things myself?

Toddlers learn to be independent (like walking, toilet training). If parents are overly critical, the child may develop shame or doubt in their abilities.

Virtue: Will – confidence to act independently.

(Early childhood)

Initiative vs. Guilt

Key question: Is it okay for me to do things?

start exploring and taking initiative, like playing and making decisions. If they're made to feel their ideas or actions are wrong, they might develop guilt.

Virtue: Purpose – ability to set and pursue goals.

(Play age)

Industry vs. Inferiority

Key question: Can I succeed at what I do?

Children start learning skills (reading, writing, sports). Success leads to feeling competent, while failure or negative feedback can lead to feelings of inferiority.

Virtue: Competence – belief in one’s ability to work and succeed.

(School age)

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Key question: Who am I?

Teenagers try to figure out who they are (career, beliefs, etc.). Success leads to a strong sense of identity; confusion leads to uncertainty about the future.

Virtue: Fidelity – loyalty to one’s beliefs and values.

(Adolescence)

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Key question: Can I form meaningful relationships?

This type of people seek close, meaningful relationships. If they can't form these, they might feel isolated.

Virtue: Love – ability to form healthy relationships.

(Young adulthood)

Generativity vs. Stagnation

Key question: Can I contribute to the world?

Adults want to contribute to society, often through parenting or work. Failing to do so might make them feel unproductive or stagnant.

Virtue: Care – nurturing others and contributing to society.

(Adulthood)

Integrity vs. Despair

Key question: Was my life meaningful?

In old age, people reflect on their lives. Feeling fulfilled leads to integrity, while regret leads to despair.

Virtue: Wisdom – acceptance of life and its meaning.

(Old age)