Erikson Outline
Erikson’s Psychosocial Theory - modified view of Freud's theories, Erik Erikson (1902-1994)
Rather than focusing on biological influences of personality, Erikson emphasized societal factors.
- Society shapes the development of the ego or self. (Each society has unique qualities that influence personality.)
- Ego development continues throughout life (unlike what Freud believed).
- "Crisis" exists at each developmental stage, according to a maturational timetable, and must be resolved for healthy ego development.
The Eight Psychosocial Stages of Development:
Basic Trust vs. Mistrust (birth to 12-18 months)
Through experience with parents, the infant develops a sense of whether the world is good and safe.
Virtues: hope and trust
Autonomy vs. Shame and Doubt (12-18 months to 3 years)
The child develops a balance of independence over doubt and shame.
Virtues: will
Initiative vs. Guilt (3-6 years)
Develops initiative when trying new things and is not overwhelmed by failure.
Virtue: purpose
Industry vs. Inferiority (6 years to puberty)
Must learn skills of the culture or face feelings of incompetence
Virtue: skill
Identity vs. Identity Confusion (puberty to young adulthood)
Adolescent must determine own sense of self or experience confusion about roles.
Virtue: fidelity
Intimacy vs. Isolation (young adulthood)
Person seeks to make commitments to others; if unsuccessful, may suffer from isolation and self-absorption.
Virtue: love
Generativity vs. Stagnation (middle adulthood)
Mature adult is concerned with establishing and guiding the next generation, or...
View Full Essay