Erikson's Psychological Theory Exam #3

Exploring Learning and Teaching

Psychosocial Stage

A life chapter with a central conflict between personal needs and social expectations (e.g., Trust vs. Mistrust)

Virtue

A durable strength gained when a stage is resolved well (Hope, Will, Purpose, Competence, Fidelity, Love, Care, Wisdom).

Trust vs. Mistrust (infancy)

Can caregivers be relied on to meet basic needs? Success → Hope

Autonomy vs. Shame/Doubt (Toddlerhood)

Can I act independently within limits? Success → Will

Initiative vs. Guilt (Early Childhood)

Is it okay to start activities and pursue goals? Success → Purpose

Industry vs. Inferiority (Middle Childhood)

Can I master valuable skills and produce work? Success → Competence

Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence)

Who am I, and what can I become? Success → Fidelity

Intimacy vs. Isolation (Early Adulthood)

Can I form deep, mutual relationships? Success → Love

Generativity vs. Stagnation (Midlife)

Will my efforts help the next generation and community? Success → Care

Ego Integrity vs. Despair (Late Adulthood)

Can I accept my life as meaningful? Success → Wisdom

Identity Crisis

a period of exploration and uncertainty about roles, values, and future paths

Foreclosure (Identity)

premature commitment to roles/values without adequate exploration

Psychosocial Moratorium

a socially supported “time out” for exploration

(e.g., electives, internships)

Epigenetic Principle

stages build in sequence; earlier outcomes support later ones, though issues can reappear at transitions

Radius of Significant Relations

The widening social circle that shapes each stage

(caregivers → peers → partners → community)