Erik Erikson’s Psychosocial Development Theory

Psychosocial Crisis

A conflict that must be resolved for healthy development at each stage.

Virtue

A strength gained from successfully resolving a psychosocial crisis.

Trust vs. Mistrust

Infancy stage (0-1 year) where the crisis is 'Can I trust the world?' and the virtue gained is Hope.

Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt

Toddlerhood stage (1-3 years) where the crisis is 'Can I do things myself, or must I rely on others?' and the virtue gained is Willpower.

Initiative vs. Guilt

Preschool stage (3-6 years) where the crisis is 'Is it okay for me to do things on my own?' and the virtue gained is Purpose.

Industry vs. Inferiority

Childhood stage (6-12 years) where the crisis is 'Can I succeed in school and work?' and the virtue gained is Competence.

Identity vs. Role Confusion

Adolescence stage (12-18 years) where the crisis is 'Who am I?' and the virtue gained is Fidelity.

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Young Adulthood stage (18-40 years) where the crisis is 'Can I form close relationships?' and the virtue gained is Love.

Generativity vs. Stagnation

Middle Adulthood stage (40-65 years) where the crisis is 'Can I contribute to society?' and the virtue gained is Care.

Integrity vs. Despair

Late Adulthood stage (65+ years) where the crisis is 'Did I live a meaningful life?' and the virtue gained is Wisdom.

Key Point of Trust vs. Mistrust

If caregivers are consistent and responsive, the infant develops trust; if neglectful/inconsistent, mistrust.

Key Point of Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt

Encouraging independence leads to confidence; overprotection/criticism leads to shame & doubt.

Key Point of Initiative vs. Guilt

Encouragement fosters initiative; excessive criticism leads to guilt and hesitance.

Key Point of Industry vs. Inferiority

Success in academics/social skills leads to competence; failure/criticism leads to inferiority.

Key Point of Identity vs. Role Confusion

Exploring interests and values leads to a strong identity; uncertainty leads to role confusion.

Key Point of Intimacy vs. Isolation

Strong relationships lead to intimacy; fear of vulnerability leads to isolation.

Key Point of Generativity vs. Stagnation

Productivity in work and mentoring leads to generativity; lack of purpose leads to stagnation.

Key Point of Integrity vs. Despair

Acceptance of life leads to integrity; regret leads to despair.

Long-term Challenges

Struggles in early stages can create long-term challenges in development.

Social Influences

Social and environmental influences are crucial in development.