AP PSYCH 6.2 Social Development in Childhood

Erikson’s Psychological Development

Babies learn to trust their caregiver to meet their needs, since they can’t do it themselves
If they cannot trust their caregiver, however, they grow up with a basic view of the world as not providing them with necessary support
- They may also see the world as a dangerous place
Infants have to rely on the people around them for everything
- They do not have object permanence, which is the understanding that things still exist when they leave awareness
- Because of this, they may interpret neglect as the complete disappearance of their parents

The conflict in early childhood tends to be about autonomy vs. shame and doubt
Take potty training for exmaple
- The child is learning to take care of their own needs
- If they are able to be potty trained, they gain a sense of independence and capability
- If not, they understand the expectations that were placed on them and may feel shameful for not accomplishing the goal
- They may also doubt future attempts
The response of the parents is crucial in helping the child through these feelings if they arise

This conflict is initiative vs. guilt
Children are beginning to assert power and control through social interactions and directing play
Children begin to explore environments and take control to do things completely on their own
It’s important for the parents to establish a boundary of keeping their child safe while also letting them explore cause and effect and their own interests
If they are not allowed to explore or are shamed for it, they may develop a sense of guilt over all of their actions

The conflict taking place in school ages is industry vs. inferiority
This is the stage where children are beginning to compare themselves to others
They will see children who are ‘industrious,’ capable and good at making friends
- If they cannot meet this self-impressed standard, they will feel an inferiority concerning social interactions
- This can also relate to school work and ability to do homework, tests, etc.
This inferiority can extend into every part of their life and affect their sense of self

High warmth, high demand
There are rules and responsibilities that are expected to be fulfilled, but parents are responsive
- If a child is unable to do something, the parent does not blame the child
- A balance between pushing the child to develop abilities and not blaming them for failure
The parents are responsive and flexible
Children have a voice in the household
Considered the best method of parenting
- This fosters children that are confident in their abilities and well-disciplined, but also self-forgiving and empathetic

Low warmth, high demand
Rules are numerous and strictly enforced
Place many responsibilities and expectations on the child
Inflexible about rules and responsibilities
Often harsh punishment for disobeying or not meeting expectations
The children feel that they have no voice in the household
- The children either go to one of two extremes
- They either becomes very stealthy and disobey their parents at every possibility to gain some autonomy
- Or they buckle under the pressure and become submissive to others, losing drive and motivation

High warmth, low demand
Rules, if instated, are not enforced
Boundaries are not set
Responsive to a harmful degree
- The parent always gives in to the child and never challenges them
More like a resource to the child than a role model