Erikson's Theory of Identity Development

Psychosocial Crisis

A 'turning point' where individuals experience a temporary state of conflict and disequilibrium.

Erik Erikson

A theorist who studied the interrelationship between psychological development and the way individuals interact socially and with their environment.

Integrity vs Despair

Stage 8: The reflect on life and come to a sense of 'ego integrity' but despair is felt by those who are dissatisfied and fear dying.

Theory of Identity Development

Individuals move through a series of eight psychosocial development stages in which our identity and self worth me be developed or crushed depending on how we resolve and deal with these issues.

Psychosocial Development

Psychological development in a social context.

Basic Trust vs Mistrust

Stage 1: Warm and responsive care leads to trust, while harsh treatment leads to mistrust.

Autonomy vs Shame and Doubt

Stage 2: Reasonable free choice can assist in development of autonomy while discouragement can lead to shame and doubt.

Initiative vs Guilt

Stage 3: Initiative is a sense of independence and responsibility when children are praised for new initiatives. Guilt emerges if adults exercise too much control and punish children for their actions.

Industry vs Inferiority

Stage 4: Children develop a sense of 'industry' through school work and working with others. Inferiority develops when negative experiences and failure lead to self-doubt and incompetence.

Identity vs Role Confusion

Stage 5: Confusion arises when they remain uncertain about their place and future role in life. Peer groups and adult role models provide important feedback about identity.

Intimacy vs Isolation

Stage 6: Young adults try to achieve intimate ties to others but isolation arises if they cannot form such ties and lasting relationships.

Generativity vs Stagnation (Self-Absorption)

Stage 7: 'Generativity' refers to act of giving to the next generation of people through child rearing. 'Stagnation' arises when we become 'self-absorbed' and do not take on a productive role in society.