Erikson's Development Theory

• Stage 1: Trust vs. Mistrust (Infancy)


  During infancy, babies learn to trust or mistrust their caregivers based on the consistency and reliability of care they receive
• Trust

  Trust develops as needs are consistently met, leading to a sense of security and optimism
• Mistrust

  Mistrust arises when needs are inconsistently met, leading to fear and suspicion
• Stage 2: Autonomy vs. Shame & Doubt (Toddlerhood)


  Toddlers being to assert their independence and explore their environment
• Autonomy

  The ability to do things independently and the feelings of self-control, self-confidence, self-reliance and competence which accompanies this.
• Shame & Doubt

  If caregivers are overly restrictive or critical, children may develop feelings of shame and doubt about their abilities
• Stage 3: Initiative vs. Guilt (Early Childhood)


  During the preschool years, children begin to take initiative in activities and develop a sense of purpose.
• Initiative

  They may explore new roles or activities initiating play and social interactions
• Guilt

  If children are overly criticised to feel guilt about their curiosity and desire for exploration, they may develop feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
• Stage 4: Industry vs. Inferiority


  School-aged children strive to master new skills and accomplish tasks
• Industry

  Industry in individuals are encouraged when their efforts to get the most out of things they already have, build practical things, allowed to finish their products and are praised and rewarded for results.
• Inferiority

  If children experience repeated failures or lack encouragement, they may develop feelings of inferiority and incompetence
• Stage 5: Identity vs. Identity confusion


  In this stage, individuals explore their personal identity and sense of self by trying different roles, beliefs, and behaviours. Key outcomes include developing a stable and coherent sense of who they are and what they want to achieve in life.
• Identity


  It represents a person's self-concept and sense of belonging, shaped through experiences, relationships, and societal influences
• Identity Confusion


  Failure to do so can result in identity confusion, where individuals may struggle with their sense of self and direction
• Stage 6: Intimacy vs. Isolation


  During this stage, individuals focus on forming intimate loving relationships with other people. The main task is to balance the need for intimacy with the need for independence.
• Intimacy


  ability to share with and care about another person without fear of losing oneself in the process.
• Isolation


  sense of being alone without anyone to share one's life with or care for. Failure to establish these connections can result in isolation , loneliness, and sometimes depression.
• Stage 7: Generativity vs. Stagnation


  Individuals strive to contribute to society and the wellbeing of future generations through activities such as parenting, work, and community involvement.
• Generativity

  Desire to help and guide the next generation. It means caring for others, raising children, and contributing to society through work. Success leads to feelings of productivity, purpose and accomplishment, reflecting generativity.
• Stagnation

  Stagnation is a feeling of being stuck or unproductive, often occurring in middle adulthood. Failure to achieve these goals can result in feelings of stagnation, self-absorption
• Stage 8: Integrity vs. Despair


  Individuals reflect on their lives and their accomplishments. The primary task is to come to terms with one's life and find a sense of closure and peace
• Integrity


  Successfully navigating this stage leads to a sense of integrity, where individuals feel proud of their achievements and have a sense of fulfillment and wisdom. They accept their life and its experiences, leading to feelings of satisfaction and completeness.
• Despair

  Failure to resolve this stage can result in feelings of regret about missed opportunities and unachieved goals, leading to dissatisfaction and fear of death.