Notes on Ericsson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Ericsson's Stages of Psychosocial Development

Each stage represents a critical period in personal and social development where we face and resolve a psychological conflict.

Infancy

• Trust vs. Mistrust: Learning to trust others forms the foundation for a secure sense of self.

Toddler Years

• Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt: Toddlers learn personal control and independence.

Preschool Years

• Initiative vs. Guilt: Children begin to assert control and power over their environment.

School Age Years

• Industry vs. Inferiority: Children strive to feel confident and productive in their abilities.

Adolescence

• Identity vs. Role Confusion: Adolescents work to develop a strong sense of self and personal identity.

Young Adulthood

• Intimacy vs. Isolation: Young adults focus on forming close, loving relationships with others.

Middle Adulthood

• Generativity vs. Stagnation: Individuals consider contributing to the world through family and meaningful work.

Maturity

• Integrity vs. Despair: Individuals reflect on their lives, striving for a sense of fulfillment and acceptance.

Mnemonic

• To help remember the order and themes of the stages: "Trust the auto in industry and identify with intimate geniuses with integrity."
  • Trust: Trust vs. Mistrust
  • Auto: Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt
  • In: Initiative vs. Guilt
  • Industry: Industry vs. Inferiority
  • Identify: Identity vs. Role Confusion
  • Intimate: Intimacy vs. Isolation
  • Geniuses (GEN): Generativity vs. Stagnation
  • Integrity: Integrity vs. Despair