erikson

Erikson's Stages of Development

Introduction to Erikson's Theory

• Erik Erikson developed the Psychosocial Theory of Human Development in the 1950s.

• The term ‘psychosocial’ encompasses:

  • Psychological: Related to the mind, personality, and brain.

  • Social: Focused on external relationships and the environment.

• His theory is sometimes referred to as biopsychosocial, integrating biological aspects into the understanding of psychosocial stages.

• Influenced by Sigmund Freud, Erikson expanded on Freud's theories by incorporating social and cultural elements.

Key Concepts of Erikson's Theory

• Simple and Accessible Model: Useful for personal development, understanding personality, and aiding in teaching, parenting, and self-awareness.

• Positive and Negative Dispositions: Each of the eight stages involves a psychosocial crisis defined by opposing emotional forces:

  • Syntonic: Positive disposition (e.g., Trust).

  • Dystonic: Negative disposition (e.g., Mistrust).

• Balance is Key: Successfully navigating each stage develops virtues, whereas failure can lead to maladaptations or malignancies.

Epigenetic Principle

• Development unfolds in a predetermined manner, where completion of early stages influences future capabilities and personality traits.

• Stages are cumulative, meaning early experiences form a foundation for later behaviors and dispositions.

• Contrary Dispositions: Each stage encapsulates a