Developmental stages

Trust vs Mistrust

• 0 to 1 year

• Crisis: developing trust in caregivers and the world

• Successful outcome: the infant learns to trust caregivers and feels safe when needs are met consistently

• Unsuccessful outcome: mistrust develops when caregivers are neglectful or inconsistent, leading to fear and insecurity

• Goal: build confidence and trust through the consistent care and affection

Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt

• 1 to 3 years

• Crisis: developing independence and self-control

• Sucessful outcome: the child learns independence (feeding, dressing, toileting) and gains confidence

• Unsucessful outcome: overly critical or controlling caregivers cause feelings of shame and doubt

• Goal: encourage independence while offering gentle guidance and patience

Initiative vs Guilt

• 3 to 6 years

• Successful outcome: the child begins to take initiative, explore, and make decisions confidently

• Unsuccessful outcome: excessive criticism or restriction leads to guilt and hesitation to act

• Goal: support creativity and allow safe exploration

Industry vs Inferiority

• 6 to 12 years

• Crisis: developing a sense of competence and pride

• Successful outcome: the child feels capable through accomplishments at school, home, or activities

• Unsuccessful outcome: lack of recognition or support leads to feelings of inferiority

• Goal: encourage achievement, cooperation, and self confidence

Identity vs Role Confusion

• 12 to 18 years

• Crisis: developing a clear sense of self and future goals

• Successful outcome: the adolescent forms a strong personal identity and values

• Unsuccessful outcome: uncertainty about self or future leads to confusion and poor decision-making

• Goal: support exploration of beliefs, identity, and life direction

Intimacy vs Isolation

• 18 to 40 years

• Crisis: forming loving, lasting relationships

• Successful outcome: the person develops healthy, intimate bonds and commitment

• Unsuccessful outcome: fear of rejection or failure leads to isolation and loliness

• Goal: encourage emotional connection and mutual respect

Generativity vs Stagnation

• 40 to 65 years

• Crisis: contributing to the next generation

• Successful outcome: the adult feels production and gives back through work, family, or community

• Unsuccessful outcome: self-centeredness or lack of purpose leads to stagnation

• Goal: promote leadership, mentorship, and purpose in life

Ego Integrity Vs Despair

• 65+ years

• Crisis: reflecting on life and finding peace

• Successful outcome: the person feels fulfilled, accepting life’s journey with wisdom

• Unsuccessful outcome: regret or dissatisfaction leads to despair and hopelessness

• Goal: encourage self-acceptance and sharing life experiences with others