Psychosocial Development throughout the Life Span Erik Eriksons
Personality Theory
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Overview of the Theory Erikson believed that at each stage in
life, individuals would face a specific challenge While facing the
challenge, individuals may struggle personally and/or socially Each
person will ultimately follow one of the two life stage
options
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Trust vs. Mistrust Infants basic needs are either met or not
met by the parents Parents are expected to provide food, caring,
comfort Infants learn whether or not people are reliable
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Autonomy vs. Shame Children begin to explore surroundings (if
Trust is developed, use parents as a secure base) Begin to develop
own interests and try to do things on their own Feeding Dressing
Bathroom Develop either self-sufficiency or a sense of shame about
own abilities
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Initiative vs. Guilt Undertaking, planning and executing a task
May feel guilt when initiative does not produce desired results
Accomplishing tasks on own Testing limits/boundaries Become more
autonomous if plans are supported, but may develop guilt if parents
or caregivers dismiss their plans
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Industry vs. Inferiority Development of self- confidence
Industry = hard working, sacrificing play for work Inferiority =
ridiculed or punished for lack of ability Development of individual
talents Not doing so can lead to poor self-esteem
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Identity vs. Role Confusion Transition from childhood to
adulthood Development of personal identity, beliefs, values May
test personal limits Identity Crisis Often a conflict between
personal desires and the expectations of others
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Intimacy vs. Isolation Blend own identities with those of
friends or loved ones Development of long- term relationships
Friendships Marriage Inability to develop close relationships may
lead to a feeling of isolation
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Generativity vs. Stagnation Generativity establishing and
guiding the next generation Contributing to society Sense of
productivity and accomplishment Stagnation = dissatisfaction with
the lack of personal productivity What have I contributed?
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Integrity vs. Despair Contemplation of personal accomplishments
Reflect upon ones own life Integrity = Ive had a successful life
Despair = I havent done what Ive wanted to do
