Erikson's Psychosocial Stages (Infancy to Old Age)

Eight flashcards covering Erikson's psychosocial stages from Infancy to Old Age, including each stage's basic conflict, virtue, and description.

Erikson's Infancy stage (0-1 year)

The basic conflict is Trust vs. mistrust, the virtue is Hope, and individuals in this stage develop trust (or mistrust) that needs like nourishment and affection will be met.

Erikson's Autonomy stage (1-3 years)

The basic conflict is Autonomy vs. shame/doubt, the virtue is Will, and individuals in this stage develop a sense of independence in numerous tasks.

Erikson's Initiative vs. guilt stage (3-6 years)

The basic conflict is Initiative vs. guilt, the virtue is Purpose, and individuals in this stage take initiative on some activities, which may lead to guilt if unsuccessful or boundaries are overstepped.

Erikson's Industry vs. inferiority stage (7-11 years)

The basic conflict is Industry vs. inferiority, the virtue is Competence, and individuals in this stage develop self-confidence in their abilities when competent, or a sense of inferiority when not.

Erikson's Identity vs. confusion stage (12-18 years)

The basic conflict is Identity vs. confusion, the virtue is Fidelity, and individuals in this stage experiment with and develop their identity and various roles.

Erikson's Intimacy vs. isolation stage (19-29 years)

The basic conflict is Intimacy vs. isolation, the virtue is Love, and individuals in this stage establish intimacy and meaningful relationships with others.

Erikson's Generativity vs. stagnation stage (30-64 years)

The basic conflict is Generativity vs. stagnation, the virtue is Care, and individuals in this stage contribute to society and are an integral part of a family.

Erikson's Integrity vs. despair stage (65 onward)

The basic conflict is Integrity vs. despair, the virtue is Wisdom, and individuals in this stage assess and make sense of their life and the meaning of their contributions.