AP Psychology Unit 10: Erikson Psychosocial Theory of Personality Development

Trust vs. Mistrust

stage 1: infancy (birth-12 months)

- baby's unconscious trust in being provided food, security, emotional comfort, etc.

- formation of social attachment & separation anxiety

Automony vs. Shame/Doubt

stage 2: early childhood (1-3)

- development of self-awareness & self identity

- children test limits & boundaries to extend their independence

lack of independence =

defeated self concept and doubt in a child's abilities

Initiative vs. Guilt

stage 3: play age (3-6)

- children self-direct their own course of activity

- learning of preschool tasks = pride & confidence

- failure to learn = guilt, frustration

learning of preschool tasks

pride & confidence

failure to learn

gulit, frusteration

Industry vs. Inferiority

Stage 4: School age (6-12)

- a critical period for learning & self-importance

if learning fosters curiosity

motivated student

if inabilties causes inferiorites

apathetic student

Identity vs. Confusion

Stage 5: Adolescence (12-20)

- peer conformity = "identity crisis

- self-reflection

- stress & fear for the future

Intimacy vs. Isolation

Stage 6: young adulthood (20-30)

- emotional readiness for long-term relationships

- identity conflicts remain unresolved = people tend to avoid partnerships (isolated)

Generativity vs. Stagnation

Stage 7: Adulthood (30-65)

- emotional need (readiness) to have readiness

- creating a family for future generations = legacy

- lack of emotional readiness = stagnation & self centeredness

Ego Integrity vs. Despair

Stage 6: Maturity (65+)

- final reflections on life's experiences

satisifed with life

death with integrity

not satisified with life

death with despair