Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Infant (0–1y)

Stage: Trust vs. Mistrust

Infant must meet goal of trusting the caregiver that their basic needs will be met.

• Separation anxiety: 4–8mo

• Stranger fear: 6–8mo

• Object permanence: 9mo

Outcome: A person who has faith and optimism

Toddler (1–3y)

Stage: Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt

The child must be provided an environment that permits self-care within reasonable limits, promoting sense of control about their bodies, themselves, and their environment.

• Negativism

• Toilet training

• Picky eating

Outcome: A person who has self-control and willpower

Preschooler (3–6y)

Stage: Initiative vs. Guilt

The child must be provided the opportunity to safely explore their environment using their imagination and all senses. Caregivers should guide them to tasks they are capable of while reinforcing limits without imposing guilt.

• Egocentrism

Outcome: A person who has direction and purpose

School age (6–12y)

Stage: Industry vs. Inferiority

The child must be provided the opportunity to achieve a sense of accomplishment through developmentally achievable tasks, receive praise that promotes feelings of self-worth.

Outcome: A person who has a sense of competence

Adolescent (12–19y)

Stage: Identity vs. Role confusion

The child is challenged to create a personal identity that is influenced strongly by the expectation of family, peers, and larger social groups.

Outcome: Devotion and fidelity to others; The internalization of values and ideologies