Erik Erikson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Erik Erikson's Eight Stages of Development

Erik Erikson's theory posits that individuals face specific psychosocial challenges throughout different life stages. Successful resolution of these conflicts is essential for healthy development.

1. Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy)

• Successful Outcome: Trust

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Mistrust

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Establish attachment to primary caregivers.

  • Develop trust in bodily functions and generalize trust to others.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Self-confidence and optimism; belief that caregivers will meet basic needs.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Lack of trust, suspiciousness, difficulty with relationships.

2. Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (Toddler)

• Successful Outcome: Autonomy

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Shame and Doubt

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Develop independence and self-control while acquiring language skills.

• Parental Guidance:

  • Parents should be firm yet tolerant.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Self-control and ability to delay gratification.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Anger with self, lack of self-confidence, absence of pride, inability to perform tasks.

3. Initiative vs. Guilt (Preschool)

• Successful Outcome: Initiative

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Guilt

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Seek new experiences while developing creativity and assertiveness.

• Influences on Behavior:

  • Hesitation due to adult reprimands affecting exploration.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Assertiveness, dependability, creativity, personal achievement.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Feelings of inadequacy, guilt, belief in deserving punishment.

4. Industry vs. Inferiority (School Age)

• Successful Outcome: Industry

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Inferiority

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Need for recognition of accomplishments to build self-confidence.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Competence, self-satisfaction, active engagement in responsibilities.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Feelings of inadequacy, inability to cooperate or compromise.

5. Identity vs. Role Confusion (Adolescence)

• Successful Outcome: Identity

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Role Confusion

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Explore personal identity and direction in life.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Emotional stability, ability for committed relationships, sound decision-making.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Lack of personal goals, rebelliousness, self-consciousness.

6. Intimacy vs. Isolation (Young Adults)

• Successful Outcome: Intimacy

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Isolation

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Develop close relationships, focus on partnerships and family.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Mutual respect and love; professional fulfillment.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Social isolation, inability to form long-term relationships.

7. Generativity vs. Stagnation (Middle Adulthood)

• Successful Outcome: Generativity

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Stagnation

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Engage in nurturing future generations and community contributions.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Personal and professional fulfillment; active contribution to society.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Self-preoccupation and inability to share or give.

8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair (Old Age)

• Successful Outcome: Ego Integrity

• Unsuccessful Outcome: Despair

• Developmental Tasks:

  • Reflect on life experiences and attain self-acceptance.

• Results of Achievement:

  • Wisdom and sense of self-worth; acceptance of mortality.

• Consequences of Non-achievement:

  • Life dissatisfaction, feelings of worthlessness, depression, inability to accept death.