Erik Erikson’s Psychological Theory

Infancy (birth - 18 months)

Trust vs. Mistrust

Trust vs. Mistrust

Develop sense of trust with caregivers when given reliability care, and affection

Early childhood (2 - 3 years)

Autonomy vs. Shame and doubt

Autonomy vs. Shame and doubt

Need to develop sense of personal control over physical skills and sense of independence

Preschool (3 - 5 years)

Initiative vs. Guilt

Initiative vs. Guilt

Need to assert control over environment

School age (6 -11 years)

Industry vs. Inferiority

Industry vs. Inferiority

Need to cope with new social and academic demands

Adolescence (12- 18 years)

Identity vs. Role confusion

Identity vs. Role confusion

Need to develop sense of self

Young adulthood (19 - 40 years)

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Need to form intimate relationships with other people

Middle adulthood (40 - 65 years)

Generosity vs. Stagnation

Generosity vs. Stagnation

Need to create or nurture things that will outlive them/create a legacy that benefits others

Maturity (65 - death)

Ego integrity vs. Despair

Ego integrity vs. Despair

Need to reflect on life for a feeling of fulfillment